‘Directorate of Industries to facilitate industrialists’

KARACHI: The Directorate of Industries has been established to facilitate industry, said Transition Officer Mushtaq Ibrahim Soomro.

The Directorate’s primary focus is to provide a one-window operation for industrialists, simplifying the approval process for building plans and eliminating unauthorised harassment by individuals falsely claiming to represent the Sindh Building Control Authority (SBCA).

During a visit to the Korangi Association of Trade and Industry (KATI), Mushtaq Ibrahim Soomro highlighted the Directorate’s key objectives, which include expediting building plan approvals within 30 days of submitting title documents and other required approvals and drawings.

He emphasised the need to adhere to international standards and proposed the implementation of rules to facilitate the industry. Additionally, plans for online submission of maps were announced, with a commitment to issue formal notifications within three days.

Soomro further said that the establishment of the Directorate of Industries marks a significant step towards addressing the challenges faced by industrial areas in Karachi, and stakeholders express optimism about its potential positive impact on the local industry.

President KATI Johar Qandhari expressed concerns over the increasing trend of illegal constructions in the megacity, stressing the importance of a one-window operation at SBCA.

He called for a simplified legal framework within SBCA to build public confidence and urged the institution to conduct information sessions to educate the public about relevant laws.

Deputy Patron-in-Chief Zubair Chhaya extended gratitude to the Chief Minister of Sindh for fulfilling KATI’s longstanding demand for a separate Directorate of Industries.

He emphasised the expectations of industrialists from this institution and highlighted the need for revisions in regularization, especially considering the requirements of the cottage industry.

Standing Committee Chairman Farhan-ur-Rehman commended the caretaker government for passing effective laws and stressed the need for a systematic approach and consistent policy implementation.

Former Presidents Masood Naqi, Farrukh Mazhar, and others also addressed the ceremony.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2024