The Commissioner of Karachi, Syed Hassan Naqvi, has directed an anti-encroachment drive in the SITE industrial area to ensure uninterrupted transport of industrial goods. The campaign will target encroachments from Siraj Qasim Teli Flyover to the Nazimabad Underpass to ease traffic congestion. He also instructed authorities to continue water line repairs if a No Objection Certificate (NOC) is available from SITE Limited.
Traffic Congestion and Encroachments
During a visit to the SITE Association of Industry, the Commissioner acknowledged the severe traffic congestion caused by illegal parking of fruit vendor carts and vehicles. He ordered the Deputy Commissioners of Keamari and Central districts to ensure that confiscated carts are not returned before 30 days. He also instructed police authorities to avoid blocking roads for cricket match security, emphasizing the need for better management.
Concerns Raised by Industrialists
Industrialists at the meeting highlighted pressing issues affecting businesses. SITE President Ahmed Azeem Alvi pointed out that water shortages, jurisdiction disputes, and excessive tax collection were major concerns. He stressed that the Town Municipal Corporation should not collect trade license and property tax, as these should be managed by SITE Limited to ensure funds are used for infrastructure development.
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Water Supply and Infrastructure Issues
Patron-in-Chief Zubair Motiwala urged the Commissioner to examine SITE Limited’s role in infrastructure development. He emphasized that property tax revenue should directly contribute to civic improvements. The Commissioner assured that he would coordinate with SITE Limited and local government officials to address these concerns.
Chief Coordinator Saleem Parekh mentioned that the Rangers operation against water theft had been ongoing for over a year and a half. Due to a recent operation, industries had no water for the past two days.
KCCI President Jawed Bilwani reminded the Commissioner of an agreement ensuring the supply of 8 MGD water in summer and 9 MGD in winter to SITE industries. He urged the Commissioner to implement this agreement to ease the crisis.
Parking and Road Blockages
Concerns over illegal truck and bus parking were also discussed. Industrialists suggested utilizing vacant spaces near Valika Hospital, Philips, Ahmed Foods, and Labour Square to prevent traffic disruptions. The Commissioner instructed officials to convene a Traffic Management Board meeting for an effective resolution.
Additionally, funds for road repairs amounting to PKR 2 billion under the Infrastructure Development Cess were still pending with the Sindh government. Industrialists requested the Commissioner’s support in expediting the release of these funds.
Security and Crime Concerns
Former SITE President Majyd Aziz highlighted issues related to road blockages for cricket team security. He urged authorities to implement alternative security measures without causing disruptions.
Another concern was raised regarding criminal activities in roadside hotels. Former President Younus Bashir pointed out that some individuals misguide laborers, urging authorities to monitor such activities closely.
Clean & Green SITE Initiative
At the end of the meeting, the Commissioner, SITE officials, and industrialists participated in a tree plantation drive, planting coconut seedlings under the Clean & Green SITE initiative. The initiative aims to improve the environment within the industrial area.
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