The Sindh government has initiated preparations to reclaim lands belonging to the Transport Department, with the aim of addressing illegal occupations and ensuring better utilization of public resources. The decision was discussed at the 13th meeting of the Sindh Mass Transit Authority (SMTA) Board, chaired by Sindh Senior Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon. The process will involve the cooperation of the Chief Secretary Sindh, IG Sindh, and Anti-Encroachment authorities.
Key Discussions at the 13th SMTA Board Meeting
The meeting, which included Mayor Sukkur Arsalan Islam Shaikh, Secretary of Transport Asad Zamin, Managing Director of SMTA Kamal Dayo, and DIG Traffic Ahmed Nawaz Cheema, focused on the reclamation of Transport Department lands and the removal of illegal encroachments.
Sharjeel Inam Memon emphasized that the government is determined to swiftly address encroachments on these lands. Notices have already been issued for properties on which government offices are built, and negotiations will take place with the relevant institutions to ensure compliance. To support this effort, the Sindh government will seek help from the Chief Secretary Sindh, IG Sindh, and the Anti-Encroachment authorities.
Decisions from the 12th SMTA Board Meeting
Several key decisions were made during the previous, 12th SMTA Board meeting, including:
- Appointment of Board Secretary: The appointment of the Secretary for the Sindh Mass Transit Authority was approved.
- Extension of Contracts for Project Management Unit Employees: The board approved the extension of contracts for two employees of the Abdul Sattar Edhi Orange Line BRT’s Project Management Unit.
- Recommendation for Permanent Appointments: The Planning and Development representative recommended making Pervaiz Jamali’s position as Deputy Director of the Project Management Unit permanent.
- Approval of SMTA Budgets: The board approved the budgets for the years 2021-22 and 2022-23 for the Sindh Mass Transit Authority.
Expansion of Public Transport Services
Sharjeel Inam Memon also outlined plans for the People’s Bus Service, aimed at providing affordable and reliable transportation during times of inflation. He revealed that the Sindh government intends to expand the bus service to additional cities across the province, while encouraging private stakeholders to invest in the service’s growth. This expansion is part of the government’s broader efforts to enhance public transportation and reduce the financial burden on the citizens of Sindh.
These initiatives highlight the Sindh government’s ongoing commitment to improving public infrastructure, addressing encroachment issues, and expanding access to essential services like transportation.
