The Sindh Cabinet, under the leadership of Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah, has taken significant steps towards improving housing, infrastructure, and energy resources in the province. In a recent meeting, the cabinet approved a series of initiatives, including a grant of Rs10.065 billion for the construction of houses for displaced residents, the establishment of solar parks, and major infrastructure upgrades.

Housing for Displaced Families

In a major decision, the cabinet approved a grant of Rs10.065 billion for constructing 80-square-yard houses for 6,932 individuals displaced by the demolition of homes along Gujjar, Orangi, and Mahmoodabad nullahs. The displaced families will be resettled in a new housing scheme developed on 258 acres in Taiser Town Scheme 45, Malir Development Authority. The housing project aims to provide these families with secure, permanent homes after their previous residences were demolished as part of efforts to clear stormwater drains.

The Pakistan Engineering Council (PEC) has estimated the cost of each house at Rs1,450,000. The funding will be released in phases, with Rs500,000 provided at the start of construction, another Rs500,000 upon completion of masonry work up to the roof, and Rs450,000 upon the completion of the grey structure for finishing work. The final list of beneficiaries will be verified and provided by a designated focal person, in compliance with directives from the Supreme Court.

Infrastructure Uplift and Emergency Works

The cabinet also addressed the urgent need for infrastructure improvements in Karachi. A sum of Rs200 million was approved for the emergency rectification of the Jamila Sewerage Pumping Station, a critical facility built in 1880 that now struggles to manage the heavy load of up to 20 million gallons of sewage per day from the Old City Area and Lyari Town. The approved funds will be used to upgrade the civil, mechanical, and electrical infrastructure to support an increased capacity of 35 million gallons per day, ensuring long-term relief for residents.

In addition to the sewerage improvements, the Sindh government approved a Rs12.72 billion grant-in-aid to the Karachi Water and Sewerage Corporation (KWSC) for the rehabilitation of the Hub Canal and the construction of a new 100 MGD canal. This project is essential for ensuring a reliable water supply to Karachi and is expected to be completed by September 2025.

Solar Energy Initiatives

The Sindh Cabinet has also made strides in renewable energy by approving the allocation of 1,462 acres of land for the development of three solar parks with a combined capacity of 320 MW. The parks will be established in Jamshoro, West Karachi, and Malir districts as part of the Sindh Solar Energy Project (SSEP), which is being executed with support from the World Bank. The cabinet, however, declined a request for duty exemption on these projects, emphasizing the importance of all entities contributing to the province’s tax base.

Establishment of Sindh Electric Power Regulatory Authority (SEPRA)

In another significant development, the cabinet approved the establishment of the Sindh Electric Power Regulatory Authority (SEPRA) under the Sindh Regulation of Electric Power Services Act, 2023. SEPRA will regulate the electric power services in Sindh, ensuring that the province’s energy needs are met efficiently and sustainably. The authority will consist of a chairman and three members, specializing in technical development, legal affairs, and finance. A budget of Rs197.916 million has been allocated for SEPRA’s operations for the fiscal year 2024-25.

Land Allocation for Railway Expansion

The Sindh government also approved the allocation of 1,381.34 acres of land in Mirpurkhas and Karachi divisions for Pakistan Railways to lay a 105-kilometer railway line from Islamkot to Chhor and a 9-kilometer line from Bin Qasim to Port Qasim. These new railway lines will facilitate the transportation of coal from the Thar Coal Field to various parts of the country and support ongoing power projects.

Establishment of Sindh Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases (SICVD)

Finally, the cabinet approved the allocation of 40 acres of land in Korangi for the establishment of the Sindh Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases (SICVD). This new healthcare facility will enhance the province’s capacity to provide specialized cardiovascular care to its residents.