KARACHI: Senior Sindh Provincial Minister for Information and Transport, Sharjeel Inam Memon, has shared significant updates regarding the city’s infrastructure and law enforcement, marking a major development for the residents of the provincial capital.
Infrastructure: Road Openings and New Projects
Addressing a press conference, the minister announced that Shahrah-e-Bhutto will be fully opened to traffic within this month. This completion will allow citizens a direct and smoother commute toward the Motorway. Furthermore, Memon revealed a new mega-project: a road connecting Karachi Port to the Taj Haider Bridge. The foundation stone for this project is expected to be laid soon. Regarding the Red Line BRT, the minister acknowledged the severe inconvenience faced by citizens due to delays. He explained that the project was re-assigned to a new contractor after the previous one failed to meet deadlines.
“We apologize to the people of Karachi for the difficulties caused by the Red Line delay. Our priority is now its swift completion,” Memon stated.
Action Against Drug Trafficking: The ‘Pinky’ Case
The Minister also touched upon the high-profile arrest of a notorious female drug dealer, commonly known as ‘Pinky.’ Memon noted that attempts were made to arrest her during his previous tenure, but she has finally been apprehended now. Addressing reports of negligence during her court appearance, he clarified that notice has been taken, and she is currently in police custody under remand. He reiterated the Sindh government’s commitment to making the province drug-free.
Foreign Investment and Governance
Highlighting President Asif Ali Zardari’s recent visit to China, the minister confirmed that MoUs were signed for critical sectors including clean drinking water, agriculture, and livestock. On the topic of the Public Service Commission, Memon defended the transparency of the process. He dismissed allegations of nepotism, stating that if a civil servant’s child qualifies for a position, it should not be viewed with suspicion unless there is evidence of foul play.
“If anyone has proof of merit being bypassed, they should step forward. The government will take immediate action,” he assured.
Historical Legacy
Concluding his talk, Sharjeel Memon paid tribute to the leadership of the PPP, stating that the foundation of Pakistan’s nuclear program was laid by Zulfikar Ali Bhutto long before many current political figures even entered the arena. He emphasized that the party’s leaders have consistently sacrificed their lives for the sovereignty of Pakistan.