Assistant commissioners to get more powers to end encroachments

A meeting took place on Wednesday between Sindh Chief Secretary Asif Hyder Shah and Karachi Mayor Barrister Murtaza Wahab, which was attended by Additional Chief Secretary Local Government Khalid Haider Shah and Municipal Commissioner Muhammad Afzal Zaidi.

The discussion focused on removing encroachments, repairing roads, and implementing various development initiatives in the city. It was decided that assistant commissioners in different areas would be granted additional powers to expedite the removal of encroachments, ensuring more efficient action.

The chief secretary specifically directed that all encroachments around hospitals be removed immediately to ensure unhindered access to healthcare facilities.

Wahab also announced that the chief minister had approved Rs1.5 billion for the repair and reconstruction of roads damaged by recent rains.

Additionally, steps would be taken to improve the city’s drainage system to prevent future disruptions.

Chief Secretary Shah emphasised the modernisation of the Karachi Metropolitan Corporation (KMC) bus service and the swift resolution of pension issues for the retired KMC employees to ensure their welfare.