Karachi, Sindh Caretaker Minister for Home & Prisons Department, Brig. (R) Haris Nawaz, has announced that the Karachi Safe City Project will become operational in January 2024. This initiative is expected to significantly alleviate the issue of street crimes in the city. Nawaz also mentioned that the expulsion of illegal immigrants has contributed to the reduction of the crime rate in Karachi. His announcement was made during a visit to the SITE Association of Industry, accompanied by high-ranking police officials.
According to the SITE Association of Industry, Brig. (R) Haris Nawaz expressed the Chief of Army Staff's concern about the country's economic issues, including the Green Pakistan initiative and the need to explore mines and minerals. He emphasized his goal to make Karachi a peaceful and business-friendly city, citing efforts to combat crime and drug trafficking. The Minister also addressed the shortage of police personnel in the SITE area and promised to resolve the issue by reassigning officers to regular duties.
Responding to concerns about traffic congestion at the entry and exit points of the SITE area, particularly at Nazimabad and Shershah, Nawaz issued instructions to clear the road within a week. He also agreed to a suggestion by Jawed Bilwani for a joint meeting of Deputy Commissioners and SSPs at the Association's office to discuss these issues further.
During the meeting, SAI President Muhammad Kamran Arbi requested additional staff and trained firefighters for the SITE Association Fire Station to ensure 24-hour operation. He also sought details of training provided by the Civil Defense department for the Fire Department staff. Chief Coordinator Saleem Parekh thanked the Minister for the meeting and suggested a system of checks and balances to maintain policy continuity.
Patron-in-Chief Zubair Motiwala highlighted the unfriendly business atmosphere, particularly the issues with power and gas tariffs, and expressed concerns about potential unemployment and resultant street crimes. Abdul Hadi, Former President and Chairman of the Law & Order sub-committee, briefed on law and order issues in the SITE area, including crime rates, non-functional security cameras, and the need for police vigilance and additional personnel.
Former Chairman of the SITE Association Tariq Yousuf suggested improvements in social security, encroachment removal, and infrastructure to control crimes. Former President Jawed Bilwani emphasized the need for a digital system for FIR lodging and proposed organizing a Driving License renewal camp for industrial workers, to which the Minister agreed.
The meeting concluded with the presentation of the Association's crest to Brig. (R) Haris Nawaz and a vote of thanks by Vice President Muhammad Farhan Ashrafi.