A committee to solve the problem of power outages
Through three sides it comes together: Sharjeel Memon
KARACHI: Senior Sindh Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon said that a committee meeting has been held on power supply through KE, HESCO and SEPCO. The committee’s mission was to resolve issues related to HESCO, SEPCO and KE, the bulletin said.
He stated that the Speaker of the House of Representatives must issue a decision ensuring the implementation of the committee’s decisions, and summon the heads of the three companies to implement the recommendations made by the committee.
Speaking during Question Period in the Sindh Assembly, Chief Minister and Minister for Information, Transport, Taxation and Narcotics Control, Sharjeel Inam Memon, said that only approved charitable organizations are eligible for tax exemptions. He added that aid brought from abroad during natural disasters, such as floods or earthquakes, is not subject to taxes.
He stated that the issue of personal use of vehicles belonging to charitable organizations is based on assumptions. Using these vehicles for personal purposes may result in their confiscation in addition to a fine. He added that charitable organizations are well aware of the privileges they are entitled to.
Senior Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon said that several reforms have been introduced in the tax department, setting revolutionary examples. A queuing system has been implemented in the civic center, with air conditioning and water provided for visiting citizens. He added that efforts have been made to move the entire system online to reduce the need for people to visit the office.
He stated that the Excise Tax Department is preparing to introduce a cashless system. Those who are not familiar with online processes will not be able to obtain summonses from the Tax Administration Office and deposit them in a bank. The excise management app has become very easy to use, allowing people to register vehicles from the comfort of their homes, for just a nominal fee. For the first time in the country, this initiative has been implemented in Sindh, ensuring that no unregistered vehicle is allowed to ply on the roads. In addition, if a vehicle from another governorate arrives at the port, it will only be allowed to travel to another governorate via a carrier from the port.
Senior Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon said that a distinctive number plate was auctioned for Rs 10 crore and the proceeds will be used to build houses for flood victims. Funds are being raised voluntarily and efforts will be made to design the foundation accordingly, he added.
He stated that Chingchi rickshaws are banned but continue to operate under stay orders issued by the court. He added that bus stands have been removed from Karachi and the government has started a shuttle service to take passengers out of the city.
Senior Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon said that the Anti-Narcotics Force is actively working against drugs at airports and border areas. A mobile service and inspection system have also been introduced in cities. He said that 10 checkpoints were officially notified, which led to the success of the operations.
He stated that the People’s Party declared war on drugs and called on everyone for help and support, stressing the need for collective action to eradicate drug abuse. He stressed that strict action will be taken against anyone involved in drug-related activities. He also noted the full cooperation of the Al-Nusra Front on behalf of the federal government.
Senior Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon said that the rehabilitation centers operating in Sindh are funded by the Sindh government. He stated that an anti-drug proposal was tabled in the Sindh Assembly and received support from all parties, including the MQM and the Jamaat-e-Islami. He also pointed out that anti-drug operations were launched at universities, which led to the arrest of some employees.
He stated that the Sindh government collected $125 billion in taxes, but some individuals sought court orders to prevent its use. The Sindh government won the case, but these individuals appealed the ruling to the Supreme Court, resulting in Rs120 billion remaining trapped there. He stressed that it is everyone’s responsibility to raise their voice on this issue, as the roads are exploited and the infrastructure is deteriorating. He called for the money to be returned so the necessary improvements could be made.