KARACHI: Senior Provincial Minister and Sindh Information Minister, Sharjeel Inam Memon, has revealed that development projects across the province are facing significant hurdles as Rs 342 billion remains frozen in 635 pending court cases. In a comprehensive policy statement, the minister detailed several landmark decisions by the Sindh Cabinet aimed at digital governance, infrastructure, and environmental protection.
Digital Property Registration for Overseas Pakistanis
In what he termed a “revolutionary move,” Memon announced that overseas Pakistanis can now register property via digital platforms without physical presence in Pakistan. Online Sales Deeds can now be completed at Pakistani embassies and missions abroad, while the system remains integrated with NADRA for secure biometric and face authentication. This initiative is designed to eliminate property fraud and restore the confidence of the diaspora.
E-Stamping and Digital Sovereignty
The Sindh Information Technology Company (SITC) has taken over the E-Stamping system, marking a step toward digital sovereignty. The move is expected to streamline tax collection through paperless stamp duties and a dedicated mobile app featuring two-factor authentication for secure transactions.
Infrastructure Cess and Agricultural Projects
To unlock development potential, the Sindh Cabinet approved a settlement for the Sindh Development and Maintenance of Infrastructure Cess. Under this plan, 15% of recognized liabilities will be paid in three phases, with the remainder collected over 12 annual installments. Additionally, a new fruit and vegetable market is being established in Larkana at a cost of Rs 4.8 billion, featuring modern facilities like banking services and advanced drainage to boost the local economy.
Judicial Shifts and Environmental Protection
Memon also shared that consumer courts are being repurposed as Traffic Courts to ensure speedier legal resolutions. On the environmental front, the government has declared 405,002 acres of land in Sujawal as ‘Protected Forest.’ This expansion of mangroves in the Indus Delta will act as a natural shield against cyclones and tidal waves, helping Sindh move closer to global forest cover standards.
