KARACHI: Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah expressed concerns regarding the Federal Board of Revenue’s (FBR) tax collection process, noting that while a significant amount, estimated to be over Rs 80 billion, was collected last year, the funds from the previous year have only been transferred to the province this year.
According to a statement by Sindh Governor House, the Chief Minister emphasized the need for timely fund transfers from the federal government to ensure prompt investment in the social sector. Speaking to the media at the Pakistan Leadership Conversation 2025, he highlighted Sindh’s major concern over the delayed transfer of funds.
Murad Ali Shah urged the federal government to expedite the transfer process, stressing that despite collecting revenue on time, Sindh does not receive its rightful share promptly. He reiterated the provincial government’s demand for timely financial allocations.
Addressing the issue of domicile irregularities, the Chief Minister assured that investigations are underway, promising strict punishment for any wrongdoing. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to transparency and accountability in governance.
In his keynote address, Murad Ali Shah outlined an ambitious vision for a resilient and sustainable Sindh, focusing on urgent transformative actions in education, healthcare, water management, infrastructure, and economic development. He described the socio-economic and environmental challenges the province faces and emphasized the necessity for immediate attention and action.
Highlighting key areas of concern, the Chief Minister mentioned poverty, low literacy rates, malnutrition, high infant mortality, and water scarcity as pressing issues. He described the loss of up to 75 percent of Sindh’s water resources due to inefficient practices as unacceptable, vowing to implement sustainable solutions.
Murad Shah stated that efforts are underway to boost literacy rates and eliminate gender disparities in education, while also prioritizing healthcare improvements, particularly in maternal and child health. He announced infrastructure investments and targeted programs aimed at reducing infant mortality and malnutrition.
On water management, the Sindh Water and Agriculture Transformation Project aims to modernize irrigation and promote efficient agricultural practices. Regarding transportation, Shah announced the introduction of 500 electric buses in Karachi as part of a three-phase plan for 8,000 eco-friendly vehicles.
Discussing CPEC 2.0, the Chief Minister expressed optimism about the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor and its potential for industrialization and agricultural development. He noted planned upgrades in transportation and energy infrastructure to enhance connectivity and job creation.
Murad Shah called for stronger partnerships with federal authorities, international stakeholders, and the private sector, emphasizing public participation in achieving resilience and sustainability. He reaffirmed his government’s commitment to modernizing infrastructure and fostering economic growth.
The Chief Minister’s address received widespread support, with stakeholders applauding the proactive approach to addressing Sindh’s challenges. As the province embarks on its journey toward progress, attention will focus on the implementation of these plans.
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