KARACHI: Sindh Secretary for Environment, Climate Change and Coastal Development, Faisal Ahmed Uqaili, announced plans to strengthen the environmental management system and extend support to the industrial sector. He emphasized improving coordination between the Sindh Environmental Protection Agency (SEPA) and industries and introduced measures such as appointing a focal person for complaints and establishing a dedicated WhatsApp group for better communication with the Korangi Association of Trade and Industry (KATI).

According to Korangi Association of Trade and Industry, Uqaili addressed industrialists at KATI, highlighting that environmental projects would be pursued under the Public-Private Partnership framework, with a focus on timely completion. KATI President Muhammad Ikram Rajput underscored the need for practical guidance, technical support, and effective coordination for implementing environmental laws. He advocated for a formal coordination mechanism between SEPA and KATI to enhance transparency and cooperation in regulatory compliance and technical guidance.

Deputy Patron-in-Chief Zubair Chhaya called for SEPA to act as both a regulator and facilitator, focusing on vehicular emissions alongside industrial pollution. He suggested a balanced policy for environmental protection and industrial development, proposing planned inspections and a one-window operation for regulatory processes to improve efficiency and transparency. Saleem-uz-Zaman, Chairman of KATI's Standing Committee on Health, Safety, and Environment, emphasized the need for a long-term environmental management plan and the full digitization of SEPA to enhance transparency and communication.