Sindh CM praises Karachi’s role in national revenue

KARACHI: Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah said that Karachi remains the highest revenue-generating city in Pakistan due to the provincial government’s efforts to create a conducive business environment, though he noted this contribution often goes unrecognised.

“The credit for Karachi’s top revenue contribution to the national exchequer belongs not only to traders but also to our government, which has fostered a positive environment for trade and commerce,” Shah said. He urged the business community to promote Karachi as a peaceful, business-friendly city and a prime destination for investment in Pakistan.

In a meeting on Wednesday with a delegation from the Karachi Chamber of Commerce & Industry (KCCI), Shah highlighted the city’s recent progress in hosting international events, including the World Cultural Festival featuring artists from 44 countries, and regular national and international events at the Karachi Expo Centre. “These are clear indicators of improved law and order, stability and ample business opportunities,” he added.

Provincial ministers Sharjeel Memon, Ziaul Hassan Lanjar and Jam Ikram Dharejo, along with Karachi Mayor Murtaza Wahab and other officials attended the meeting. The KCCI delegation included Jawed Balwani, Mian Abrar, AQ Khalil, Ziaul Arfeen and Mian Faisal, among others.

KCCI representatives raised concerns regarding utilities such as gas shortages, costly electricity, water supply, deteriorating infrastructure and transportation issues. In response, the relevant ministers discussed ongoing efforts to address these challenges.

Chief Minister Shah shared that the federal government is working to reduce electricity tariffs, and the provincial government is also striving to make electricity more affordable. On gas shortages, he stated that he would request the federal government to allocate a fair share of Sindh’s gas production to meet both domestic and industrial needs.

Transport Minister Sharjeel Memon acknowledged that ongoing development projects, including the BRT red line, have affected traffic flow. He assured the KCCI that efforts are underway to expedite project completion to alleviate congestion. Memon also encouraged KCCI members to invest in electric buses, noting the sector’s promising returns and government incentives for investors. Following up, CM Shah directed Memon to visit the KCCI and personally promote investment opportunities in transportation.

Home Minister Ziaul Hassan Lanjar highlighted improved cooperation between the police and the business community, adding that law-and-order concerns are being addressed in consultation with industry leaders. He instructed the additional IG Karachi to strengthen coordination with the KCCI and other trade associations to resolve security issues. Wahab informed the KCCI that water projects are underway to support industrial needs, including a desalination plant at Ibrahim Hyderi and a wastewater treatment plant currently in the final stages of approval.

Health Secretary Rehan Baloch assured the KCCI that outpatient departments at Jinnah, Civil, and other hospitals are being expanded to handle increased demand.

At the meeting’s conclusion, the CM and the KCCI delegation agreed to resolve ongoing disputes, including the issue of depositing the infrastructure cess in court. They committed to reaching an agreement so that these funds can be used for Karachi’s infrastructure development. Wahab noted that Rs72 billion in water charges remain outstanding from the business community. The KCCI and the mayor agreed to reconcile the amounts and settle the outstanding dues.