Minister seeks dialogue to resolve Indus River diversion issue

LALAMUSA: Punjab’s Industries Minister Chaudhry Shafay Hussain addressed the media in Gujrat, advocating for a resolution to the Indus River canal diversion issue through dialogue, referencing the Punjab Assembly Speaker’s suggestion of an in-camera meeting to address unrest related to the Cholistan Canal Plan.

Shafay stressed the need for consensus on the Kalabagh Dam, suggesting that until an agreement is reached, small dams should be built along canals to generate up to 30 megawatts of electricity. He also pointed out the federal government’s measures against rising terrorism, attributing the surge in terrorist activities in Balochistan to external elements for obstructing Gwadar’s development. The minister acknowledged the efforts of Chaudhry Shujaat Hussain in maintaining peace in Balochistan and suggested that he could once again play a significant role in stabilizing the region.

He condemned terrorist attacks, including those on the Jaffar Express, stating that such acts have no connection with Islam. He called for political unity against terrorism, urging Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) to participate in security discussions for the country’s betterment. Highlighting Pakistan’s economic progress, Shafay Hussain expressed concerns over potential setbacks due to political instability.

He noted that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is working towards financial independence from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to drive national development. He reassured that the Punjab government is launching new projects to enhance public welfare. Shafay Hussain announced several key initiatives for Gujrat, including the construction of Gujrat Division offices this year.

He revealed plans for a 300-acre Gujrat Industrial Estate, expected to generate employment opportunities. Security measures in the district are also being strengthened, with the installation of 300 cameras under the Safe City Project already underway.

Regarding road infrastructure, the minister assured that the Service Mour-GT Road project would be completed by December and the deteriorated Gujrat to Khatala Bridge road would be reconstructed within two and a half months. Additionally, funds for underpass repairs are expected to be approved soon.

Shafay Hussain declared the establishment of a 200-bed District Headquarters Hospital named after Chaudhry Shujaat Hussain and plans for an MRI machine at Aziz Bhatti Shaheed Hospital. Traffic management will improve with traffic lights to be installed by June. About Gujrat’s sewage issues, he warned that those responsible for blockages due to sabotage will face action. He also acknowledged enforcement issues with the one-year ban on plastic bags and committed to ensuring compliance.

Shafay Hussain announced plans to establish an agricultural university through the University of Gujrat, highlighting the importance of improving the neglected agricultural sector. He mentioned the ongoing anti-encroachment operation targeting illegally occupied properties, which has received support from the business community.

Hussain dismissed claims that his administration was re-launching old projects, emphasizing that current development initiatives are new, and reaffirmed that his government is committed to public welfare without political bias.