Setting up of industrial estate in Rawalpindi reviewed

LAHORE: Provincial Minister for Industries and Commerce Chaudhry Shafay Hussain on Wednesday chaired a video link meeting at Punjab Board of Investment and Trade (PBIT) to review the establishment of an industrial estate in Rawalpindi.

A delegation led by Rawalpindi Chamber of Commerce and Industry President Usman Shaukat, participated in the meeting via video link and emphasised the need for setting up an industrial estate in the area. Chaudhry Shafay stated that govt's efforts to attract new investments in Punjab are yielding positive results. He added that accelerating the process of industrialisation could create more employment opportunities and the government is taking all necessary steps to promote industry in the province.

Shafay further assured that the issues faced by industrialists are being resolved on a priority basis. It was decided that an industrial estate would be established on non-agricultural land in Rawalpindi, and later it could be given the status of a Special Economic Zone (SEZ). The minister directed immediate commencement of work on this project.

The delegation pointed out that the absence of such an estate in Rawalpindi is hindering industrial development, and initiating this project is essential for the promotion of industry in the region.

The delegation included former presidents of the Rawalpindi Chamber of Commerce Asad Mashhadi and Saqib Rafiq, along with executive committee members M Imran, M Akram and others.

The meeting was attended by PIEDMC Chairman Javed Iqbal, Punjab Investment Board DG Dr Sohail Ahmed, and other officials.

Trade union education stressed for domestic workers

Domestic workers, largely women and girls, represent a vital yet often overlooked segment of the workforce. Despite their essential contributions to households and the economy, they face numerous challenges, including low wages, long hours, unsafe working conditions, and exploitation in Pakistan

Speaking at a consultation here, Zauq Akhtar, Director Programmes at the Labour Research & Development Institute (PUWF), emphasised the importance of trade union education as a means to empower these workers. He noted that such education helps them understand their rights and advocate for better working conditions.

President Domestic Workers Union (DWU) Ms Samina Farooq highlighted that domestic workers need more than just recognition, they are deserving of respect, rights, and safe working conditions. Trade union education is crucial for empowering them.

General Secretary of Pakistan United Workers Federation (PUWF) Saad Muhammad Chaudhry highlighted that without proper education regarding their rights, many domestic workers are unaware of international conventions that protect them from violence and ensure fair treatment.

Trade union education programmes aim to equip domestic workers with essential knowledge about their fundamental labour rights, including fair wages and safe working environments, he said.

This education not only informs them but also raises solidarity among workers, enabling them to form or join unions that amplify their collective voice. The Domestic Workers Union (DWU) has been essential in organising domestic workers and enhancing their visibility. Collaborating with the ILO/PRS Project, the DWU has conducted training programmes that have significantly improved domestic workers understanding of national and international labour laws, he added.

The government of Punjab has taken steps to promote decent work for domestic workers through legislation such as the Domestic Workers Act 2019 and the announcement of minimum wages. These measures aim to provide social security benefits and improve working conditions for domestic workers, he said.

Zauq Akhtar (LRDI) pointed out that domestic workers deserve respect, rights, and safe working environments. Trade union education is crucial in unlocking potential and transforming lives by offering a pathway to dignity and justice for Pakistan's domestic workforce.