Karachi: The Senior Sindh Minister for Information, Transport, and Mass Transit, Sharjeel Inam Memon, has committed to facilitating a meeting between the Sindh Industrial and Trading Estate (SITE) members and the Chief Minister of Sindh to discuss pressing industrial issues. The announcement was made during his visit to the SITE Association of Industry, where he also revealed plans to connect the Orange and Green Line bus services with the SITE industrial area to aid workers.

The minister, accompanied by various officials including the Managing Director of SITE Limited and SSP District Keamari, emphasized the importance of the business community, referring to them as the government’s asset. He highlighted the Sindh Government’s ongoing and future projects aimed at addressing Karachi’s urban challenges, including the opening of the second phase of the Malir Expressway and improvements in traffic management.

In his speech, Memon addressed the significant damage caused by recent floods in Sindh, noting that the government had rebuilt approximately 8.5 lakh homes. He also mentioned efforts to manage heavy traffic in Karachi by utilizing the Northern Bypass and granting special permissions for heavy vehicles to use the Lyari Expressway during off-peak hours.

Memon criticized K-Electric for its load-shedding practices, describing them as unconstitutional and urged the business sector to consider investments in the Dhabeji Industrial Zone. He also committed to resolving issues related to gas supply, traffic management, and infrastructure development.

During the meeting, SITE President Ahmed Azeem Alvi requested the integration of the SITE area with the railway network to enhance logistical efficiency. Meanwhile, Zubair Motiwala, Patron-in-Chief, highlighted the economic contributions of Karachi and called for the diversion of heavy traffic away from residential areas.

The discussions also covered the need for better infrastructure, such as the completion of University Road, and the privatization of vehicle fitness certification. Jawed Bilwani, President of the Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry, stressed the importance of reviving the Karachi Circular Railways and constructing ring roads to alleviate traffic congestion.

The meeting saw participation from several former SITE Presidents and industry representatives, who voiced their concerns and suggestions for improving the industrial landscape in Karachi.