The Sindh High Court (SHC) issued a notice to the widow of the alleged gangster Rehman Baloch on the application of the Sindh government seeking modification in the SHC order regarding the appointment of the investigation officer in Rehman Baloch’s encounter case.The police have registered an FIR against SSP Mohammad Aslam and his police party for the killing alleged gangster, Sardar Abdul Rehman Baloch and his three associates in August last year. The court appointed DIG investigation, Bashir Memon to carryout the investigation after registration of the FIR.Questioning the appointment of DIG Bashir Memon as the investigation officer, Assistant Advocate General, Adnam Karim submitted that the court order for the appointment of the DIG be modified. He submitted that the IG Sindh is the competent authority to appoint an investigation officer. SHC’s division bench headed by Chief Justice, Sarmad Jalal Osmany after preliminary hearing of the application issued a notice to the complainant on February 18.Police inspector granted bail: The SHC granted interim pre-arrest bail to a police inspector in regard to an abduction case of a missing person.Jehangir Khan Mehar was booked along with DPO Imran Yaqoob and other army personnel at Faiz Ganj police station for allegedly kidnapping Hafiz Khan Mohammad on December 21, 2004. The FIR was registered following the order of the Supreme Court on complaint of the detainee’s relative, Hameed who was also unlawfully detained by the law enforcement agencies for ten months.LJ activists’ case: The Anti Terrorism Court (ATC) issued bailable warrants against the police inspector and medico legal officer for their absence as prosecution witnesses in the sectarian killing case.Mohammad Ajmal, Attaullah and Mohammad Azam were arraigned for killing the principal of Jamia Millia polytechnic college along with the driver and peon in May 2002. According to the prosecution, defendants killed Zafar Mehdi, the college principal, his driver and peon while they were on their way to college in an official vehicle. The case had been pending for the last eight years before the Anti Terrorism Court took the case.Sub inspector, Wahid Bux, who prepared an inquest report while medico legal officer of Jinah hospital, did not appear before the court for deposition. The court then issued their bailable warrants. Another prosecution witness, Tahir Nasir, a mashir of the case, however recorded the medico legal officer’s statement. ATC headed by Judge Anand Ram Hotwani, who was conducting the trial at the central prison, adjourned the hearing till February 20, directing Special Public Prosecutor, Mubashir Mirza to produce prosecution witnesses against the defendants.
Saturday, February 13, 2010
Water quota unable to meet
Water quota unable to meet
While the population of the city is swelling at an estimated rate of 10 per cent per annum, the current quota of 650 million gallon per day (MGD) water has already been utilised, and the city faces the possibility of a drastic shortage of potable water, The News has learnt.The available 1,200 cusec water had been fully utilised till 2007, but ever since, not a single drop of water has been added to the allocated quota. Sources said that requests for an additional 1,200 cusec of water for Karachi have fallen on deaf ears in both the Sindh and the Federal government.Sources told The News that Karachi Nazim Mustafa Kamal wrote a letter to the Sindh additional chief Secretary on June 27, 2009, requesting that an additional 1,200 cusecs of water be made available for the city. However, no decision has been reached at in this context till now, sources maintained. It is pertinent to mention that Karachi currently receives 550 million gallon per day (MGD) from the River Indus and 100 MGD from Hub Dam; the total supply of fresh water thus amounts to 650 MGD, which is equivalent to 1,200 cusecs.Following the Karachi Nazim’s letter, a summary was moved by the Sindh planning and development (P&D) department to the provincial chief minister, who in turn, scheduled a meeting on this matter. However, sources added, this meeting could not be held till now. Sources said that Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) had carried out the Master Plan study on water supply and sewerage system, and in its final report submitted to the Sindh government in 2008 had recommended an additional allocation of 1200 cusec water quota.JICA, in its study, had also discussed the extraordinary growing rate of the population of the city, which currently stands at around 18 million. This population is swelling at a rate of 10 to 12 per cent per annum, with several factors, including that of large-scale internal displacement contributing to this increase.Sources said that the case was also referred to the federal government, who in its reply, had advised the Sindh government to arrange 1,200 cusecs of water for Karachi from within its own allocation of water. However, the matter could not be resolved as yet, sources said, adding that without the allocation of the additional quota, the Karachi Water and Sewerage Board (KWSB) is unable to proceed further on the K-4 Project.The paucity of fresh water in the city can be gauged through the fact that contrary to the standard practice of water supply throughout the day, each day of the week, water is only supplied for four to six hours in some areas of the city, and that too, on an irregular basis. Given the prevailing circumstance and available resources, the standard practice cannot be maintained in Karachi.Sources said that according to the K-4 project feasibility report, the plan entails completing the project in five phases; each phase would enable the supply of 130 MGD water. As per the study, the first phase of the K-4 project was to begin in 2009, and it was supposed to be completed in 2012. Similarly, according to the feasibility of the project, the fifth and the final phase of K-4 was supposed to be completed till 2025, and it would cater to a total supply of 650 MGD of water. It is pertinent to mention here that geographic information system (GIS) would be used for materializing K-4 Project to cater to future requirements of fresh water in the city.
Water quota unable to meet
Water quota unable to meet
While the population of the city is swelling at an estimated rate of 10 per cent per annum, the current quota of 650 million gallon per day (MGD) water has already been utilised, and the city faces the possibility of a drastic shortage of potable water, The News has learnt.The available 1,200 cusec water had been fully utilised till 2007, but ever since, not a single drop of water has been added to the allocated quota. Sources said that requests for an additional 1,200 cusec of water for Karachi have fallen on deaf ears in both the Sindh and the Federal government.Sources told The News that Karachi Nazim Mustafa Kamal wrote a letter to the Sindh additional chief Secretary on June 27, 2009, requesting that an additional 1,200 cusecs of water be made available for the city. However, no decision has been reached at in this context till now, sources maintained. It is pertinent to mention that Karachi currently receives 550 million gallon per day (MGD) from the River Indus and 100 MGD from Hub Dam; the total supply of fresh water thus amounts to 650 MGD, which is equivalent to 1,200 cusecs.Following the Karachi Nazim’s letter, a summary was moved by the Sindh planning and development (P&D) department to the provincial chief minister, who in turn, scheduled a meeting on this matter. However, sources added, this meeting could not be held till now. Sources said that Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) had carried out the Master Plan study on water supply and sewerage system, and in its final report submitted to the Sindh government in 2008 had recommended an additional allocation of 1200 cusec water quota.JICA, in its study, had also discussed the extraordinary growing rate of the population of the city, which currently stands at around 18 million. This population is swelling at a rate of 10 to 12 per cent per annum, with several factors, including that of large-scale internal displacement contributing to this increase.Sources said that the case was also referred to the federal government, who in its reply, had advised the Sindh government to arrange 1,200 cusecs of water for Karachi from within its own allocation of water. However, the matter could not be resolved as yet, sources said, adding that without the allocation of the additional quota, the Karachi Water and Sewerage Board (KWSB) is unable to proceed further on the K-4 Project.The paucity of fresh water in the city can be gauged through the fact that contrary to the standard practice of water supply throughout the day, each day of the week, water is only supplied for four to six hours in some areas of the city, and that too, on an irregular basis. Given the prevailing circumstance and available resources, the standard practice cannot be maintained in Karachi.Sources said that according to the K-4 project feasibility report, the plan entails completing the project in five phases; each phase would enable the supply of 130 MGD water. As per the study, the first phase of the K-4 project was to begin in 2009, and it was supposed to be completed in 2012. Similarly, according to the feasibility of the project, the fifth and the final phase of K-4 was supposed to be completed till 2025, and it would cater to a total supply of 650 MGD of water. It is pertinent to mention here that geographic information system (GIS) would be used for materializing K-4 Project to cater to future requirements of fresh water in the city.
Two killed in firing incidents
Two killed in firing incidents
Two people were killed in two different firing incidents on Friday.Sheraz, 25, an employee of the Karachi Water and Sewerage Board sustained bullet wounds in a clash between two groups in Ayub Goth situated in the Sohrab Goth police limits. The armed men after injuring him managed to flee from the scene.The area people took him to the Abbasi Shaheed Hospital (ASH) in a critical condition where during treatment he succumbed to his injuries.The area police lodged an FIR against unknown people.Akram Qureshi, 35, an owner of a cattle farm was shot dead when unidentified people barged into his house situated in Gulistan-e-Jauhar in Block-14 in the Gulistan-e-Jauhar police jurisdiction and managed to flee.Police said that the deceased divorced his wife a few months back and they suspect his brother-in-law to be involved in this murder. However, the police claimed that this murder was due to some personal enmity. mishaps: Yaseen, 18, was knocked down to death when a speeding hit-and-run vehicle ran him over near the Northern Bypass in the Manghopir police limits while he was going on his bicycle.Shahab Ali Khan, 25, was injured when a speeding minibus of route W-55 ran him over near the 4-K bus stop in the Surjani Town police jurisdiction. The driver of the minibus managed to flee after leaving his vehicle abandoned. The angry mob after the incident came out on the road and started pelting stones on passer-by vehicles. They also torched the abandoned bus. Later the area police reached the spot and controlled the situation.
Two people were killed in two different firing incidents on Friday.Sheraz, 25, an employee of the Karachi Water and Sewerage Board sustained bullet wounds in a clash between two groups in Ayub Goth situated in the Sohrab Goth police limits. The armed men after injuring him managed to flee from the scene.The area people took him to the Abbasi Shaheed Hospital (ASH) in a critical condition where during treatment he succumbed to his injuries.The area police lodged an FIR against unknown people.Akram Qureshi, 35, an owner of a cattle farm was shot dead when unidentified people barged into his house situated in Gulistan-e-Jauhar in Block-14 in the Gulistan-e-Jauhar police jurisdiction and managed to flee.Police said that the deceased divorced his wife a few months back and they suspect his brother-in-law to be involved in this murder. However, the police claimed that this murder was due to some personal enmity. mishaps: Yaseen, 18, was knocked down to death when a speeding hit-and-run vehicle ran him over near the Northern Bypass in the Manghopir police limits while he was going on his bicycle.Shahab Ali Khan, 25, was injured when a speeding minibus of route W-55 ran him over near the 4-K bus stop in the Surjani Town police jurisdiction. The driver of the minibus managed to flee after leaving his vehicle abandoned. The angry mob after the incident came out on the road and started pelting stones on passer-by vehicles. They also torched the abandoned bus. Later the area police reached the spot and controlled the situation.
Six killed in separate incidents
Six killed in separate incidents
Six people were killed in separate incidents reported in the city on Tuesday. The body of a labourer, 30-year-old Kabeer Khan, bearing marks of physical torture was found from within the Sohrab Goth police limits. Sohrab Goth SHO Nasir-ul-Hassan said that Khan’s body was found hanging inside his house in Lasi Goth. He was reportedly killed by his wife, 22-year-old Fatima. The police have arrested her. In the course of investigation, it was found that late Monday night, Khan went off to sleep after dinner. Fatima had reportedly laced the food with some poisonous substance. Afterwards, with the help of her lover, she strangled her husband to death. A case was registered and investigation is under way.In another case, the bullet-riddled body of 23-year-old Nazeer, also bearing marks of physical torture, was found from the Pak Colony police limits. Pak Colony SHO, Aslam, said that the body was found from the Lyari river passing through Pak Colony. During probe, it was found that the deceased went out from his house late Monday night telling his family that he was going out to dinner with friends in Lasbella. When he failed to return for a long time, the family approached his friends but no one had a clue regarding his whereabouts. Later on Tuesday, Nazeer’s body was found from the area.In yet another case, 50-year-old Mohammed Mustafa was shot dead by armed men in a land dispute in the Saeedabad police limits. The police said that the deceased had some land dispute running with a party. Five days ago, Mustafa’s brother had registered a case at the Saeedabad police station regarding Mustafa’s kidnapping from Baldia Town. He had nominated some people in the case. The police had arrested a suspect nominated in the FIR. The police, however, had failed to trace Mustafa. On Tuesday morning, his bullet-riddled body was found near the G-27 bus stop. Meanwhile, Saeed Taj, a scrap dealer, was shot dead by armed men in the Soldier Bazaar police limits. The police said that the deceased was going towards his house in Garden, when armed motorbike riders killed him and fled. BODIES FOUND: The torture mark-bearing bodies of two men were found from the Korangi Industrial Area and the Kalakot police limits. On informatiopn, the Kalakot police recovered the body of an unidentified person who had been brutally tortured. A case was registered.In another case, the body of a 22- to 25-year-old man was found from the KIA police limits. A case was registered at the police station.
Chehlum suspect arrested by CID
Chehlum suspect arrested by CID
The Criminal Investigation Department (CID), in coordination with the National Database Registration Authority (NADRA), have arrested a man suspected of involvement in the February 5 blast at Nursery.Intelligence sources said that while investigating the twin blasts reported on Chelum (February 5), teams from the CID and other departments had collected evidence and video footage from CCTV cameras installed along Sharea Faisal. The footage showed a man parking a motorcycle at the blast spot (Shahrah-e-Quaideen Bridge, Nursery). Pictures of the man were then obtained through the video footage, and taken to the NADRA office, where it was found that the suspect was a resident of Bazerta Lines in Jutt Lane, Brigade.The CID investigation team then carried out a raid and arrested the suspect, who was identified as Khalid. He was taken to the investigation unit for interrogation. Meanwhile, no officer from the Sindh police, including the CID Sindh, has confirmed the man’s arrest. According to another source, Khalid was released after his statement was recorded.
The Criminal Investigation Department (CID), in coordination with the National Database Registration Authority (NADRA), have arrested a man suspected of involvement in the February 5 blast at Nursery.Intelligence sources said that while investigating the twin blasts reported on Chelum (February 5), teams from the CID and other departments had collected evidence and video footage from CCTV cameras installed along Sharea Faisal. The footage showed a man parking a motorcycle at the blast spot (Shahrah-e-Quaideen Bridge, Nursery). Pictures of the man were then obtained through the video footage, and taken to the NADRA office, where it was found that the suspect was a resident of Bazerta Lines in Jutt Lane, Brigade.The CID investigation team then carried out a raid and arrested the suspect, who was identified as Khalid. He was taken to the investigation unit for interrogation. Meanwhile, no officer from the Sindh police, including the CID Sindh, has confirmed the man’s arrest. According to another source, Khalid was released after his statement was recorded.
Thursday, February 11, 2010
Move to restart KCR
Move to restart KCR
Sindh cabinet on Thursday decided to consider restarting Karachi Circular Railway (KCR), keeping in view its importance to the commuters.This decision was made in a cabinet meeting chaired by Governor Azim Daudpota. Minister for Labour, Dewan Yousuf Farooq, underlined the need to formulate a feasibility to run the KCR and elicit involvement of the private sector on a BOT (build-own-transfer) basis. Participants of the meeting were of the view that despite an annual loss of Rs. 5 million to the Railway Ministry, the KRC should have been kept operational because it facilitated the people of Karachi.Sindh chief secretary supported the idea of keeping the circular railway functional and said that the land given to Railways on lease for the purpose could not be utilized for any other purpose. He underlined the need for some interim arrangement to run the circular railway.The cabinet formed a committee to prepare a comprehensive engineering and feasibility study and submit the report as early as possible for implementation and monitoring of the short term action plan. The committee will be headed by minister labour and Transport, and secretaries Labour and Finance departments, and commissioner Karachi will be its members.Jails’ conditions also came up for discussion with particular reference to foreign convicts and detainees. It was decided that the Home Department would send such cases to the Law Department to sort out these cases in consultation with the federal government.The cabinet also considered the construction of a pipeline to prevent oil tankers from coming to Karachi’s roads. Commissioner Karachi briefed the cabinet members on phasing out tankers from Karachi roads and their concentration at Keamari near the port. He said the requirement for Karachi was 400 tankers per day and for the rest of the country, it was 550 tankers per day.He also briefed the cabinet on the lack of safety measure at Keamari, lack of cooperation by concerned agencies in case of oil spillage and use of all city roads by the vehicles going upcountry.
Sindh cabinet on Thursday decided to consider restarting Karachi Circular Railway (KCR), keeping in view its importance to the commuters.This decision was made in a cabinet meeting chaired by Governor Azim Daudpota. Minister for Labour, Dewan Yousuf Farooq, underlined the need to formulate a feasibility to run the KCR and elicit involvement of the private sector on a BOT (build-own-transfer) basis. Participants of the meeting were of the view that despite an annual loss of Rs. 5 million to the Railway Ministry, the KRC should have been kept operational because it facilitated the people of Karachi.Sindh chief secretary supported the idea of keeping the circular railway functional and said that the land given to Railways on lease for the purpose could not be utilized for any other purpose. He underlined the need for some interim arrangement to run the circular railway.The cabinet formed a committee to prepare a comprehensive engineering and feasibility study and submit the report as early as possible for implementation and monitoring of the short term action plan. The committee will be headed by minister labour and Transport, and secretaries Labour and Finance departments, and commissioner Karachi will be its members.Jails’ conditions also came up for discussion with particular reference to foreign convicts and detainees. It was decided that the Home Department would send such cases to the Law Department to sort out these cases in consultation with the federal government.The cabinet also considered the construction of a pipeline to prevent oil tankers from coming to Karachi’s roads. Commissioner Karachi briefed the cabinet members on phasing out tankers from Karachi roads and their concentration at Keamari near the port. He said the requirement for Karachi was 400 tankers per day and for the rest of the country, it was 550 tankers per day.He also briefed the cabinet on the lack of safety measure at Keamari, lack of cooperation by concerned agencies in case of oil spillage and use of all city roads by the vehicles going upcountry.
PFF to launch campaign to revive Indus
PFF to launch campaign to revive Indus
Pakistan Fisherfolk Forum (PFF) will launch a campaign for the restoration of River Indus and raise a voice against mega water projects on the river. A PFF meeting held on Sunday evening called on all the political parties and civil society organisations advocating water issues, to take part in the campaign to build up pressure on the government to save the life and livelihoods of thousands of people.In this regard, the PFF spokesman said that the fishermen representing inland water bodies from each district will start a mass mobilisation campaign from February 15. The district bodies would stage long marches separately on February 25, heading to Hyderabad, from where the main rally would proceed to the River Indus and culminate after the public meeting. Leaders of different political parties and civil society organisations would be invited to attend cultural activities in the dried river bed, he said.The PFF has designed a four-member committee to make arrangements in this connection, and invite all the concerned organisations and water experts. The PFF believes that blocking the Indus water is a ‘conspiracy’ against the people of Sindh. They have planned to launch an effective campaign, involving all the concerned groups to achieve the target in this regard, the spokesman said.Several towns and cities, located near the River and major canals are facing acute shortage of water. The blockade of Indus water has caused depletion of forests and natural grazing fields, and compelled forest communities to migrate to safer places. This situation has also affected major fresh water lakes, wetlands and caused desertification of water bodies, the spokesman added. The spokesman further said that there is no need to implement the 1991 Water Accord now, adding that the campaign would represent the voice of all.
Pakistan Fisherfolk Forum (PFF) will launch a campaign for the restoration of River Indus and raise a voice against mega water projects on the river. A PFF meeting held on Sunday evening called on all the political parties and civil society organisations advocating water issues, to take part in the campaign to build up pressure on the government to save the life and livelihoods of thousands of people.In this regard, the PFF spokesman said that the fishermen representing inland water bodies from each district will start a mass mobilisation campaign from February 15. The district bodies would stage long marches separately on February 25, heading to Hyderabad, from where the main rally would proceed to the River Indus and culminate after the public meeting. Leaders of different political parties and civil society organisations would be invited to attend cultural activities in the dried river bed, he said.The PFF has designed a four-member committee to make arrangements in this connection, and invite all the concerned organisations and water experts. The PFF believes that blocking the Indus water is a ‘conspiracy’ against the people of Sindh. They have planned to launch an effective campaign, involving all the concerned groups to achieve the target in this regard, the spokesman said.Several towns and cities, located near the River and major canals are facing acute shortage of water. The blockade of Indus water has caused depletion of forests and natural grazing fields, and compelled forest communities to migrate to safer places. This situation has also affected major fresh water lakes, wetlands and caused desertification of water bodies, the spokesman added. The spokesman further said that there is no need to implement the 1991 Water Accord now, adding that the campaign would represent the voice of all.
PPP senior minister in the line of
PPP senior minister in the line of
Pakistan People’s Party’s (PPP) disgruntled MPA, Taimur Talpur, once again raised the issue of his grievances against the party’s parliamentary leader and senior minister, Pir Mazharul Haq, before the Sindh Assembly session on Wednesday.
Speaking on a point of order, Talpur said that since the party’s parliamentary meeting did not take place on Wednesday, he was compelled to raise his grievances before the legislature. Referring to Speaker Nisar Ahmed Khuhro’s efforts to defuse the situation on Tuesday, Talpur said that went to the Speaker’s chamber, but regrettably, the senior minister did not arrive. Since he continued to speak on the matter, his microphone was shut.
Muttahida Qaumi Movement’s (MQM) parliamentary leader, Syed Sardar Ahmed said that such issues should not be brought before the Assembly, claiming that it was “unfair” to raise this issue against the senior minister.
In his response, Pir Mazharul Haq explained that they (MPAs) were all there at the lawn of the assembly premises to attend the luncheon arranged by the Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry in honour of the provincial legislators. He said that once the lunch was over, he visited the Speaker’s chamber, but nobody was there.
Sindh Food Minister Nadir Magsi suggested to the Speaker to call both Haq and Talpur to his chamber after the session, and pacify the situation. The Speaker subsequently agreed to this proposal.
JAMMERS TO BE INSTALLED AT PRISONS: Sindh Prisons Minister Muzaffar Shujra, responding to point of order raised by Humera Alwani, said that the government was considering installing jammers at prisons to prevent prisoners from using cell phones, as they were being used for criminal activities inside jail premises.
Shujra said that the prisoners started ‘illegally’ using mobile phones in 2004, but the present government was trying to control this phenomenon. He said that thus far, the use of mobile phones inside prisons has been controlled by up to 70per cent. He alleged that the prisoners used to ‘organise’ kidnappings for ransom from their cell phones during the tenure of the past government. He said that the prison department had initiated action against prisoners for using cell phones.
Sindh Local Government Minister Agha Siraj Durrani said that as per international standards, prisoners were allowed to talk with their relatives for five minutes each day at designated telephone booths inside prisons. NO DECISION ABOUT SCHOOL UNIFORM: Sindh Education Minister Pir Mazharul Haq, responding to a point of order raised by Bilqees Mukhtar, said that no decision has been taken for waiving off uniform requirements in government schools. He said that this idea was floated during a meeting of the steering committee concerned, but after the MQM raised objections over the proposal, he had formed a committee comprising of experts, which was deliberating the matter.
The education minister said that there were an estimated 44,000 primary schools and around 5,000 secondary and middle schools where children of the poor were studying. The minister said that it was not easy for parents to arrange uniforms for their children, and because of financial constraints, the government was also not providing uniforms to children.
He said that owing to financial constraints, the government was also finding it difficult to implement the approved scheme of providing a meal to pupils.
Opposition leader Jam Madad said that during the last six months, only 16 per cent of development funds had been utilised, which was a matter of concern.
Nusrat Abbasi said that the federal government, while giving a 20 per cent ad-hoc relief to employees in the 2009-10 budget, had promised to formalise such assistance in 2010, but this was not being implemented. Dr Rafiq said that there was a shortage of water in Mirwah Canal and Nara Canal, and claimed that rotation has started but tail-enders have been deprived of water.
Farheen Mughal raised the issue of unavailability of proper equipments to detect bombs in the city. Zakat and Ushr Minister Sajid Jokhio, while responding to point of order raised by Mujadid Isran, promised that a girl named Shazia, suffering from cancer in Larkana, would be provided with funds from Zakat for her treatment .
Pakistan People’s Party’s (PPP) disgruntled MPA, Taimur Talpur, once again raised the issue of his grievances against the party’s parliamentary leader and senior minister, Pir Mazharul Haq, before the Sindh Assembly session on Wednesday.
Speaking on a point of order, Talpur said that since the party’s parliamentary meeting did not take place on Wednesday, he was compelled to raise his grievances before the legislature. Referring to Speaker Nisar Ahmed Khuhro’s efforts to defuse the situation on Tuesday, Talpur said that went to the Speaker’s chamber, but regrettably, the senior minister did not arrive. Since he continued to speak on the matter, his microphone was shut.
Muttahida Qaumi Movement’s (MQM) parliamentary leader, Syed Sardar Ahmed said that such issues should not be brought before the Assembly, claiming that it was “unfair” to raise this issue against the senior minister.
In his response, Pir Mazharul Haq explained that they (MPAs) were all there at the lawn of the assembly premises to attend the luncheon arranged by the Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry in honour of the provincial legislators. He said that once the lunch was over, he visited the Speaker’s chamber, but nobody was there.
Sindh Food Minister Nadir Magsi suggested to the Speaker to call both Haq and Talpur to his chamber after the session, and pacify the situation. The Speaker subsequently agreed to this proposal.
JAMMERS TO BE INSTALLED AT PRISONS: Sindh Prisons Minister Muzaffar Shujra, responding to point of order raised by Humera Alwani, said that the government was considering installing jammers at prisons to prevent prisoners from using cell phones, as they were being used for criminal activities inside jail premises.
Shujra said that the prisoners started ‘illegally’ using mobile phones in 2004, but the present government was trying to control this phenomenon. He said that thus far, the use of mobile phones inside prisons has been controlled by up to 70per cent. He alleged that the prisoners used to ‘organise’ kidnappings for ransom from their cell phones during the tenure of the past government. He said that the prison department had initiated action against prisoners for using cell phones.
Sindh Local Government Minister Agha Siraj Durrani said that as per international standards, prisoners were allowed to talk with their relatives for five minutes each day at designated telephone booths inside prisons. NO DECISION ABOUT SCHOOL UNIFORM: Sindh Education Minister Pir Mazharul Haq, responding to a point of order raised by Bilqees Mukhtar, said that no decision has been taken for waiving off uniform requirements in government schools. He said that this idea was floated during a meeting of the steering committee concerned, but after the MQM raised objections over the proposal, he had formed a committee comprising of experts, which was deliberating the matter.
The education minister said that there were an estimated 44,000 primary schools and around 5,000 secondary and middle schools where children of the poor were studying. The minister said that it was not easy for parents to arrange uniforms for their children, and because of financial constraints, the government was also not providing uniforms to children.
He said that owing to financial constraints, the government was also finding it difficult to implement the approved scheme of providing a meal to pupils.
Opposition leader Jam Madad said that during the last six months, only 16 per cent of development funds had been utilised, which was a matter of concern.
Nusrat Abbasi said that the federal government, while giving a 20 per cent ad-hoc relief to employees in the 2009-10 budget, had promised to formalise such assistance in 2010, but this was not being implemented. Dr Rafiq said that there was a shortage of water in Mirwah Canal and Nara Canal, and claimed that rotation has started but tail-enders have been deprived of water.
Farheen Mughal raised the issue of unavailability of proper equipments to detect bombs in the city. Zakat and Ushr Minister Sajid Jokhio, while responding to point of order raised by Mujadid Isran, promised that a girl named Shazia, suffering from cancer in Larkana, would be provided with funds from Zakat for her treatment .
Mobile-snatcher gets seven years
Mobile-snatcher gets seven years
Additional District and Sessions Judge (East) Sanaullah Ghori sentenced an accused to seven years imprisonment in a robbery case.One Bilal was prosecuted for snatching the cell phone of one Javed Ahmed in the jurisdiction of Ferozabad police station in 2007.The judge also imposed a fine of Rs 5,000 and in case of non-payment he would have to undergo additional one month imprisonment.According to the prosecution, three armed men snatched the cell phone and cash from Javed Ahmed on April 6, 2007. However, the victim informed some policemen posted at a nearby traffic kiosk and they challenged the fleeing suspects but they opened fire. The police, however, managed to arrest Bilal after the shootout, while his two accomplices escaped. The snatched cellphone was also recovered from Bilal.Meanwhile, District and Sessions Judge (East) awarded 10 years imprisonment to two accused in a car snatching case.DJ East Sadiq Hussain Bhatti found Abdul Hameed and Ghulam Shabbir guilty of the charges under sections 392 and 412 of PPC and awarded them 10 years imprisonment and a fine of Rs 50,000. In case of default the convicts would have to undergo additional one-year imprisonment. According to the prosecution, the accused snatched the car of Zahoor Ahmed at gunpoint in Gulshan-i-Iqbal on August 26, 2009. Later, Mobina Town police arrested Abdul Hameed and Ghulam Shabbir and recovered the snatched vehicle from their possession.
Ahmed Chinoy new CPLC chief
Ahmed Chinoy new CPLC chief
Sindh Governor Dr Ishratul Ebad, has appointed noted city businessman Ahmed Chinoy Chief of the Citizens-Police Liaison Committee (CPLC), according to a Governor’s House Press release issued on Wednesday. The appointment comes at the end of the tenure of former CPLC Chief Sharfuddin Memon. Outgoing Chief, Memon, said after his meeting with the Governor that the CPLC had received maximum patronage of the governor during his tenure and apart from inducting of the latest state-of-the-art equipment, the working of the organisation also improved. Governor Ishratul Ebad lauded Memon’s services to the organisation during his tenure as its chief and wished him well for the future. He also expressed the hope that Chinoy’s tenure would see an improvement of ties between the citizens and the police and that cordiality rather than acrimony, would prevail.
Sindh Governor Dr Ishratul Ebad, has appointed noted city businessman Ahmed Chinoy Chief of the Citizens-Police Liaison Committee (CPLC), according to a Governor’s House Press release issued on Wednesday. The appointment comes at the end of the tenure of former CPLC Chief Sharfuddin Memon. Outgoing Chief, Memon, said after his meeting with the Governor that the CPLC had received maximum patronage of the governor during his tenure and apart from inducting of the latest state-of-the-art equipment, the working of the organisation also improved. Governor Ishratul Ebad lauded Memon’s services to the organisation during his tenure as its chief and wished him well for the future. He also expressed the hope that Chinoy’s tenure would see an improvement of ties between the citizens and the police and that cordiality rather than acrimony, would prevail.
Appointment of administrators
Appointment of administrators
The Sindh High Court (SHC) on Wednesday issued notices to the Sindh government, the Election Commissioner of Pakistan and others on a petition against the proposed appointment of administrators to run the local bodies’ affairs in the province. A representative of the Al-Khidmat Group and former presiding officer of the City Council, Muslim Pervez, submitted that the term of local governments including the City District Government Karachi (CDGK) expired in October 2009 and since then neither was any election conducted by the Election Commissioner of Pakistan (ECP) nor any announcement was made in this regard.He said that the government wanted to nominate administrators of its own choice in place of Nazims which would be amounted to violation of the SLGO as the ECP was bound to discharge its duty without fear and favour.It was submitted that the Sindh provincial assembly though in session, no legislation was seen to be done with regard to the Ordinances declared void by the supreme court specifically the SLGO 2001, which ceased on December 31 last year. He said that the CDGK and other local governments were working unlawfully and non-holding of fresh elections by the ECP was amount to deprive the people of the province from their right of franchise. The petitioner’s counsel submitted that the provincial government could not appoint administrators to run the affairs of the local governments rather the present set-up could run the affairs till the elections were arranged by the ECP.The court was prayed to declare that the local governments, after the lapse of their respective tenure, were functioning illegally and direct the ECP to arrange for holding elections as required under the law. The petitioner also prayed the court to restrain the government from appointing administrators in the entire province.The SHC’s division bench observed that since the tenure of the local governments has been expired and election was overdue. Issuing notices to Chief Secretary, Secretary Local Governments, the Election Commissioner and others the court directed the respondents to file comments within ten days.Petition against disqualification: The Sindh High Court (SHC), on a petition against the disqualification of a candidate of the Pakistan People’s Party (PPP), directed the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) to allocate election symbol to him. The petitioner, Sadiq Ali Memon, assailed the election tribunal order against his disqualification from contesting the by-election of PS-84, Thatta. Petition for judges’ appointment: The Sindh High Court (SHC) adjourned hearing of a petition seeking immediate appointment of high court judges against permanent vacancies. The court was informed that the identical nature of petition was pending in the supreme court, therefore, the matter may be adjourned till the order of the supreme court.
The Sindh High Court (SHC) on Wednesday issued notices to the Sindh government, the Election Commissioner of Pakistan and others on a petition against the proposed appointment of administrators to run the local bodies’ affairs in the province. A representative of the Al-Khidmat Group and former presiding officer of the City Council, Muslim Pervez, submitted that the term of local governments including the City District Government Karachi (CDGK) expired in October 2009 and since then neither was any election conducted by the Election Commissioner of Pakistan (ECP) nor any announcement was made in this regard.He said that the government wanted to nominate administrators of its own choice in place of Nazims which would be amounted to violation of the SLGO as the ECP was bound to discharge its duty without fear and favour.It was submitted that the Sindh provincial assembly though in session, no legislation was seen to be done with regard to the Ordinances declared void by the supreme court specifically the SLGO 2001, which ceased on December 31 last year. He said that the CDGK and other local governments were working unlawfully and non-holding of fresh elections by the ECP was amount to deprive the people of the province from their right of franchise. The petitioner’s counsel submitted that the provincial government could not appoint administrators to run the affairs of the local governments rather the present set-up could run the affairs till the elections were arranged by the ECP.The court was prayed to declare that the local governments, after the lapse of their respective tenure, were functioning illegally and direct the ECP to arrange for holding elections as required under the law. The petitioner also prayed the court to restrain the government from appointing administrators in the entire province.The SHC’s division bench observed that since the tenure of the local governments has been expired and election was overdue. Issuing notices to Chief Secretary, Secretary Local Governments, the Election Commissioner and others the court directed the respondents to file comments within ten days.Petition against disqualification: The Sindh High Court (SHC), on a petition against the disqualification of a candidate of the Pakistan People’s Party (PPP), directed the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) to allocate election symbol to him. The petitioner, Sadiq Ali Memon, assailed the election tribunal order against his disqualification from contesting the by-election of PS-84, Thatta. Petition for judges’ appointment: The Sindh High Court (SHC) adjourned hearing of a petition seeking immediate appointment of high court judges against permanent vacancies. The court was informed that the identical nature of petition was pending in the supreme court, therefore, the matter may be adjourned till the order of the supreme court.
Sindh, Balochistan fishermen
Sindh, Balochistan fishermen
A two-day joint meeting between the Sindh and Balochistan government officials and the representatives of the fishing community will discuss fishing-related issues to settle the prolonged controversy over the use of seawaters. Federal ministry officials, provincial fisheries ministers, secretaries and officials leading the marine and inland water departments and community organisations will attend the consultative meeting being held in Karachi on February 12 and 13. On the first day there will be a close session in which federal and provincial government officials and community leaders will discuss the policy and design recommendations, while on February 13, there will be an open session in which 500 delegates, mostly government officials, community leadership and civil society representatives from both the provinces will participate. Balochistan Maheegir Network (BMT), Strengthening Participatory Organisation (SPO) and Pakistan Fisherfolk Forum are organising the meeting. SPO Regional Manager Ellehi Bakhsh told The News that they have designed a comprehensive fisheries policy, focusing the livelihood issues and threats the community people are facing which would be discussed in the meeting. He claims that they have invited Federal Ministry of Food, Agriculture and Livestock, which also deals with the matters of fishing sector, with provincial fisheries ministers and heads of relevant departments to resolve the issues.Besides, the controversy between fishermen of Sindh and Balochistan coastal areas, issuing licenses to deep sea trawlers, use of harmful nets, increasing marine pollution, replacing contracts with issuing licenses to the bona fide fishermen residing at inland waters, rivers and canals and the community development will be discussed in the meeting. It is for the first time that a meeting jointly with presence of government and community stakeholders will discuss the important issues. Earlier, the government had introduced the Fisheries Policy, which the community people opposed widely, accusing it of ignoring their rights.
A two-day joint meeting between the Sindh and Balochistan government officials and the representatives of the fishing community will discuss fishing-related issues to settle the prolonged controversy over the use of seawaters. Federal ministry officials, provincial fisheries ministers, secretaries and officials leading the marine and inland water departments and community organisations will attend the consultative meeting being held in Karachi on February 12 and 13. On the first day there will be a close session in which federal and provincial government officials and community leaders will discuss the policy and design recommendations, while on February 13, there will be an open session in which 500 delegates, mostly government officials, community leadership and civil society representatives from both the provinces will participate. Balochistan Maheegir Network (BMT), Strengthening Participatory Organisation (SPO) and Pakistan Fisherfolk Forum are organising the meeting. SPO Regional Manager Ellehi Bakhsh told The News that they have designed a comprehensive fisheries policy, focusing the livelihood issues and threats the community people are facing which would be discussed in the meeting. He claims that they have invited Federal Ministry of Food, Agriculture and Livestock, which also deals with the matters of fishing sector, with provincial fisheries ministers and heads of relevant departments to resolve the issues.Besides, the controversy between fishermen of Sindh and Balochistan coastal areas, issuing licenses to deep sea trawlers, use of harmful nets, increasing marine pollution, replacing contracts with issuing licenses to the bona fide fishermen residing at inland waters, rivers and canals and the community development will be discussed in the meeting. It is for the first time that a meeting jointly with presence of government and community stakeholders will discuss the important issues. Earlier, the government had introduced the Fisheries Policy, which the community people opposed widely, accusing it of ignoring their rights.
A government overcome by fear?
A government overcome by fear?
Pakistan Rangers-Sindh were given powers of the police to protect us, citizens of Karachi, from the spate of violence and killings that had gripped this city. Perhaps the policy was inspired by the idea of instilling fear, given the posture of Sindh Home Minister Dr Zulfiqar Mirza; a week later it seems that even the Rangers can’t, or won’t, protect a government seemingly overcome by fear.Benazir Bhutto (Shaheed) was always admired for her courage: to face multiple martial laws, to risk her own pregnancy for the sake of those she represented, for mingling amongst the commons in times of terror – amongst other things. BB made public appearances in times when General (retd) Pervez Musharraf and his prime minister, Shaukat Aziz, would inaugurate projects from the comfort of the Presidency and Prime Minister House respectively.It’s pertinent to remember BB’s legacy here – because the Sindh government of her party, the Pakistan People’s Party, now seems to be living under a perpetual cloud of insecurity. True, it is facing testing times, but much of the PPP’s support in Lyari eroded after presidential “trouble-shooter” Rehman Malik ordered an operation there.Given the enormity of the proverbial beast, the PPP should have come out with all guns blazing – politically. Twice in the last week, however, the government and its associated agencies locked themselves up, fortifying their own niches of comfort, while citizens were left – quite literally – high and dry.The city was struck by twin terror attacks on the Chehlum of Imam Hussain (Friday, February 5). The ghastly plot was planned to maximise human loss, and the terrorists succeeded in fooling our “fool-proof” security – not once, but twice, in a single day. On Ashura (December 28, 2009), claims of “fool-proof” security measures were made by the police. This time, it was the Rangers. End result: no one could stop the attacks from taking place.Following the blast, the Rangers simply barricaded themselves inside their headquarters, but surprisingly, the Chief Minister House was left open for attack. In such a scenario, it is maybe easy to rationalise why the government prefers to stay locked up inside the Chief Minister’s House. One is forced to wonder, however, if the government is so overcome by fear that it prefers to have the city centre remain gridlocked for over three hours – simply to protect itself from a group of Shia organisations from attacking, a thought that never materialised. Eventually, a PPP delegation led by Raza Rabbani stepped out of Fort Chief Minister’s House, and said yes to pretty much everything that was being demanded of the government.In other news, a seminar was organised to pay tribute to eminent journalist M.B Naqvi, who passed away in November last year. Speakers highlighted his “almost prophetic” writings about East Pakistan, with even the Pakistan Ambassador to the United Nations, Husain Haroon claiming that the country lost its ‘head’ in 1971. Pak-Iran relations were lauded, as is the custom, at another seminar to celebrate the 31st anniversary of the ‘Islamic revolution’ in Iran. While religion may act as a common denominator, it was pleasing to see that Iranian Consul-General Masood Zamani highlighted the cultural and linguistic bonds between the two countries.The last word goes to Naseema Labano, a teenage girl who was gang-raped in Ubavro, District Kotri. Labano made a public appearance at a seminar organised by War Against Rape (WAR) at the Sindh High Court (SHC) in connection with the Rape Survivor Programme, and highlighted the fact that only one out of 11 accused were handed a sentence. Six others were acquitted – something that highlights the lacunas in the current legal system for women. Will the government take note, and redress the situation? Only if it stops being overcome by fear.
Pakistan Rangers-Sindh were given powers of the police to protect us, citizens of Karachi, from the spate of violence and killings that had gripped this city. Perhaps the policy was inspired by the idea of instilling fear, given the posture of Sindh Home Minister Dr Zulfiqar Mirza; a week later it seems that even the Rangers can’t, or won’t, protect a government seemingly overcome by fear.Benazir Bhutto (Shaheed) was always admired for her courage: to face multiple martial laws, to risk her own pregnancy for the sake of those she represented, for mingling amongst the commons in times of terror – amongst other things. BB made public appearances in times when General (retd) Pervez Musharraf and his prime minister, Shaukat Aziz, would inaugurate projects from the comfort of the Presidency and Prime Minister House respectively.It’s pertinent to remember BB’s legacy here – because the Sindh government of her party, the Pakistan People’s Party, now seems to be living under a perpetual cloud of insecurity. True, it is facing testing times, but much of the PPP’s support in Lyari eroded after presidential “trouble-shooter” Rehman Malik ordered an operation there.Given the enormity of the proverbial beast, the PPP should have come out with all guns blazing – politically. Twice in the last week, however, the government and its associated agencies locked themselves up, fortifying their own niches of comfort, while citizens were left – quite literally – high and dry.The city was struck by twin terror attacks on the Chehlum of Imam Hussain (Friday, February 5). The ghastly plot was planned to maximise human loss, and the terrorists succeeded in fooling our “fool-proof” security – not once, but twice, in a single day. On Ashura (December 28, 2009), claims of “fool-proof” security measures were made by the police. This time, it was the Rangers. End result: no one could stop the attacks from taking place.Following the blast, the Rangers simply barricaded themselves inside their headquarters, but surprisingly, the Chief Minister House was left open for attack. In such a scenario, it is maybe easy to rationalise why the government prefers to stay locked up inside the Chief Minister’s House. One is forced to wonder, however, if the government is so overcome by fear that it prefers to have the city centre remain gridlocked for over three hours – simply to protect itself from a group of Shia organisations from attacking, a thought that never materialised. Eventually, a PPP delegation led by Raza Rabbani stepped out of Fort Chief Minister’s House, and said yes to pretty much everything that was being demanded of the government.In other news, a seminar was organised to pay tribute to eminent journalist M.B Naqvi, who passed away in November last year. Speakers highlighted his “almost prophetic” writings about East Pakistan, with even the Pakistan Ambassador to the United Nations, Husain Haroon claiming that the country lost its ‘head’ in 1971. Pak-Iran relations were lauded, as is the custom, at another seminar to celebrate the 31st anniversary of the ‘Islamic revolution’ in Iran. While religion may act as a common denominator, it was pleasing to see that Iranian Consul-General Masood Zamani highlighted the cultural and linguistic bonds between the two countries.The last word goes to Naseema Labano, a teenage girl who was gang-raped in Ubavro, District Kotri. Labano made a public appearance at a seminar organised by War Against Rape (WAR) at the Sindh High Court (SHC) in connection with the Rape Survivor Programme, and highlighted the fact that only one out of 11 accused were handed a sentence. Six others were acquitted – something that highlights the lacunas in the current legal system for women. Will the government take note, and redress the situation? Only if it stops being overcome by fear.
A brief history of the artist
A brief history of the artist
Born as Syed Sadequain Ahmed Naqvi in the Indian city of Amroha in 1930, he displayed a talent for art from an early age. Completing his formal education at the Agra University, he migrated to Pakistan in 1948. His skills were recognised by the first elected Prime Minister, Huseyn Shaheed Suharwardy who broke the promising artist in to the mainstream society and Sadequain grabbed the opportunity by both hands. The marriage was perfect, Sadequain had found an audience to paint for and an aspiring society had discovered their ultimate Kohinoor.Affectionately titled Sadequain Naqqash for his great role in the revival of calligraphy in the South East Asia, Sadequain was much more than a calligrapher or muralist. His works, primarily comprising paintings, calligraphic works and murals, along with quatrains, rubaiyaats, poetry and essays were his candles to enlighten the public of truths of the world and the universe.Sadequain was also rewarded and recognised by the Pakistani government which conferred the prestigious Tamgha-e-Imtiaz, Pride of Performance, President’s Medal of Honour and Sitara-e-Imtiaz in honour of his services. His studies in France helped him much. With a chance to benefit from the cultural revival ongoing in Paris in the early 1960’s it added dimensions to his work and widened his horizon. So much so was he inspired that he was rewarded with the Laureate de Paris during the Paris Biennale.
Monday, February 1, 2010
Sites of interest
Major attractions
- Mazar-e-Quaid - tomb of Muhammad Ali Jinnah, founder of Pakistan
Mohatta Palace and museum
Lady Lloyd pier at Bin Qasim park
Karachi Port Authority's Water Jet fountain
Agha Khan University hospital - for its modernist Islamic architecture
Masjid e Tooba - largest single-domed mosque in the world.
Beaches and Waterfront
Clifton Beach
Beach Park
Jehangir Kothari Parade
Hawke's Bay Beach - breeding ground for endangered turtles
Paradise Point - rock promontory in the sea with a natural arch
Sandspit Beach
French Beach
Museums
Pakistan Air Force Museum
Karachi Expo Centre
PIA Planetarium
Karachi Stock Exchange Building
National Museum of Pakistan
Koocha-e-Saqafat (National Arts Council)
Pakistan Maritime Museum
WWF Wetland center at Sandspit
Colonial Buildings
Merewether Tower
Frere Hall
Saint Patrick's Cathedral, Karachi
Sindh High Court
National Academy of Performing Arts
Empress Market
Islands
Clifton Oyster Rocks
Bhit Shah Island
Buddo Island
Bundal Island
Churma Island
Manora Island
Clubs
Karachi Boat Club
Creek Club
Marina Club
Arabian sea country club
DHA Golf club
Sindh club
Karachi club
Amusement Parks
Aladdin Amusement Park
Sindbad Amusement Park
Safari Park
Hill park
Famous Avenues
Zamzama Avenue (famous for its designer outlets & clubs)
Beach Avenue
Karsaz Road (Karachi's pride)
II Chundrigar Road (Karachi's Wall Street)
Shahrah-e-Faisal
Tariq Road (Shopping street)
Karachi's Founding and Colonial History
Karachi was founded as "Kolachi" by Baloch tribes from Balochistan and Makran who established a small fishing community in the area . Descendants of the original community still live in the area on the small island of Abdullah Goth, which is located near the Karachi Port. The original name "Kolachi" also survives in the name of a well-known Karachi locality named "Mai Kolachi."
The city remained a small fishing village until the British seized control of the offshore and strategically located island of Manora. Thereafter, authorities of the British Raj embarked on a large-scale modernization of the city in the 19th century with the intention of establishing a major and modern port which could serve as a gateway to Punjab, the western parts of British India, and Afghanistan. Britain's competition with imperial Russia during the Great Game also heightened the need for a modern port near Central Asia, and so Karachi prospered as a major centre of commerce and industry during the Raj, attracting communities of: Africans, Arabs, Armenians, Goan Catholics, Jews (both Sephardic and Ashkenazi), Lebanese Christians, Malayans, and Zoroastrians - in addition to the large number of British businessmen and colonial administrators who established the city's poshest locales, such as Clifton.
British colonialists embarked on a number of public works of sanitation and transportation - such as gravel paved streets, proper drains, street sweepers, and a network of trams and horse-drawn trolleys. Colonial administrators also set up military camps, a European inhabited quarter, and organized marketplaces, of which the Empress Markets are most notable. The city's wealthy elite also endowed the city with a large number of grand edifices, such as the elaborately decorated buildings that house social clubs, known as 'Gymkhanas.' Wealthy businessmen also funded the construction of the Kothwari Parade (a large seaside promenade) and the Frere Hall, in addition to the cinemas, and gambling parlours which dotted the city.
Karachi witnessed relatively few events associated with the Indian movement for independence. Perhaps because of effective colonial administration, the city witnessed only few outbursts of anti-British sentiment in the city, unlike most other major cities in British India, which were often the scene of violence and widespread "civil disobedience." As the movement for Indian independence almost reached its conclusion, the city suffered widespread outbreaks of communal violence between Muslims and Hindus. In response to the perceived threat of Hindu domination, in combination with Sindhi Muslim resentment towards wealthy Sindi Hindus, the province of Sindh became the first province of British India to pass the Pakistan Resolution, in favour of the creation of the Pakistani state. The ensuing turmoil of Partition lead to the expulsion of most of Karachi's wealthy Hindu community. While many poorer Hindus, Christians, and wealthy Zoroastrians remained in the city, Karachi's native Sindhi Hindu community was almost entirely uprooted, and replaced by migrants from India seeking refuge from the anti-Muslim pogroms which were taking place there.
The city remained a small fishing village until the British seized control of the offshore and strategically located island of Manora. Thereafter, authorities of the British Raj embarked on a large-scale modernization of the city in the 19th century with the intention of establishing a major and modern port which could serve as a gateway to Punjab, the western parts of British India, and Afghanistan. Britain's competition with imperial Russia during the Great Game also heightened the need for a modern port near Central Asia, and so Karachi prospered as a major centre of commerce and industry during the Raj, attracting communities of: Africans, Arabs, Armenians, Goan Catholics, Jews (both Sephardic and Ashkenazi), Lebanese Christians, Malayans, and Zoroastrians - in addition to the large number of British businessmen and colonial administrators who established the city's poshest locales, such as Clifton.
British colonialists embarked on a number of public works of sanitation and transportation - such as gravel paved streets, proper drains, street sweepers, and a network of trams and horse-drawn trolleys. Colonial administrators also set up military camps, a European inhabited quarter, and organized marketplaces, of which the Empress Markets are most notable. The city's wealthy elite also endowed the city with a large number of grand edifices, such as the elaborately decorated buildings that house social clubs, known as 'Gymkhanas.' Wealthy businessmen also funded the construction of the Kothwari Parade (a large seaside promenade) and the Frere Hall, in addition to the cinemas, and gambling parlours which dotted the city.
Karachi witnessed relatively few events associated with the Indian movement for independence. Perhaps because of effective colonial administration, the city witnessed only few outbursts of anti-British sentiment in the city, unlike most other major cities in British India, which were often the scene of violence and widespread "civil disobedience." As the movement for Indian independence almost reached its conclusion, the city suffered widespread outbreaks of communal violence between Muslims and Hindus. In response to the perceived threat of Hindu domination, in combination with Sindhi Muslim resentment towards wealthy Sindi Hindus, the province of Sindh became the first province of British India to pass the Pakistan Resolution, in favour of the creation of the Pakistani state. The ensuing turmoil of Partition lead to the expulsion of most of Karachi's wealthy Hindu community. While many poorer Hindus, Christians, and wealthy Zoroastrians remained in the city, Karachi's native Sindhi Hindu community was almost entirely uprooted, and replaced by migrants from India seeking refuge from the anti-Muslim pogroms which were taking place there.
Karachi
Karachi ( Sindhi: ڪراچي, Urdu: کراچی) is the provincial capital of Sindh province and the largest city in Pakistan. Karachi is the world's second largest city proper behind Mumbai in terms of population, which exceeds 12 million. In terms of population, it is one of the largest cities in the world, and is Pakistan's premier centre of banking, industry, and trade. Karachi is also the home of Pakistan's largest corporations that are involved in entertainment, publishing, software development, medical research. It also serves as a major hub of higher education in South Asia, and the wider Islamic World.
Karachi was the original capital of Pakistan until the construction of Islamabad, and is the location of Karachi Port, one of the regions largest and busiest ports. The city's population has since increased dramatically after the partition of British India forced hundreds of thousands of Urdu and Gujrati speaking "Mohajirs"(refugees) to settle in the city. Since independence from Britain in 1947, the city's vibrant economy has attracted migrants from all over Pakistan, and beyond. Despite a history of political turmoil, the city continues to attract those seeking prosperity.
Karachi city is expansive, and is over 3,530 square kilometres (1,363 sq mi) in area. It is locally known as the "City of Lights" (روشنين جو شهر) for its liveliness, and the "City of the Quaid" (شهرِ قائد), having been the birth and burial place of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, the founder of Pakistan, who also made the city his home after Pakistan's independence.
Karachi was the original capital of Pakistan until the construction of Islamabad, and is the location of Karachi Port, one of the regions largest and busiest ports. The city's population has since increased dramatically after the partition of British India forced hundreds of thousands of Urdu and Gujrati speaking "Mohajirs"(refugees) to settle in the city. Since independence from Britain in 1947, the city's vibrant economy has attracted migrants from all over Pakistan, and beyond. Despite a history of political turmoil, the city continues to attract those seeking prosperity.
Karachi city is expansive, and is over 3,530 square kilometres (1,363 sq mi) in area. It is locally known as the "City of Lights" (روشنين جو شهر) for its liveliness, and the "City of the Quaid" (شهرِ قائد), having been the birth and burial place of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, the founder of Pakistan, who also made the city his home after Pakistan's independence.
Transportation of karachi
Transportation of karachi
The Jinnah International Airport is located in Karachi. It is the largest and busiest airport of Pakistan. It handles 10 million passengers a year. The airport also receives the largest number of foreign airlines, a total of 35 airlines and cargo operators fly to Jinnah International predominantly from the Middle East and Southeast Asia. All of Pakistan's airlines use Karachi as their primary transport hub including PIA - Pakistan International Airlines, Airblue, and Shaheen Air International.
The city's old airport terminals are now used for Hajj flights, offices, cargo facilities, and ceremonial visits from heads of state. U.S. Coalition forces used the old terminals for their logistic supply operations as well. The city also has two other airstrips, used primarily by the armed forces.
The largest shipping ports in Pakistan are the Port of Karachi and the nearby Port Qasim. These seaports have modern facilities and not only handle trade for Pakistan, but also serve as ports for Afghanistan and the landlocked Central Asian countries. Plans have been announced for new passenger facilities at the Port of Karachi.Karachi is linked by rail to the rest of the country by Pakistan Railways. The Karachi City Station and Karachi Cantonment Railway Station are the city's two major railway stations. The railway system handles a large amount of freight to and from the Karachi port and provides passenger services to people traveling up country.
A project to transform the existing, but non-operational, Karachi Circular Railway into a modern mass transit system has recently been approved by the government. The $1.6 billion project will be financed by the Japan Bank for International Cooperation and will be completed by 2013. The city government has also introduced an initiative to alleviate the transport pains by introducing new CNG buses.
The city's old airport terminals are now used for Hajj flights, offices, cargo facilities, and ceremonial visits from heads of state. U.S. Coalition forces used the old terminals for their logistic supply operations as well. The city also has two other airstrips, used primarily by the armed forces.
The largest shipping ports in Pakistan are the Port of Karachi and the nearby Port Qasim. These seaports have modern facilities and not only handle trade for Pakistan, but also serve as ports for Afghanistan and the landlocked Central Asian countries. Plans have been announced for new passenger facilities at the Port of Karachi.Karachi is linked by rail to the rest of the country by Pakistan Railways. The Karachi City Station and Karachi Cantonment Railway Station are the city's two major railway stations. The railway system handles a large amount of freight to and from the Karachi port and provides passenger services to people traveling up country.
A project to transform the existing, but non-operational, Karachi Circular Railway into a modern mass transit system has recently been approved by the government. The $1.6 billion project will be financed by the Japan Bank for International Cooperation and will be completed by 2013. The city government has also introduced an initiative to alleviate the transport pains by introducing new CNG buses.
US MAGAZINE FEATURES SYED MUSTAFA KAMAL AS MAYOR OF THE MOMENT.
The award winning American Magazine Foreign Policy has featured Nazim Karachi Syed Mustafa Kamal as the mayor of the moment in its global cities index for 2008. The magazine in its article highlighted the innovative things done by three of the world’s mayors against enormous odds. The other two mayors are Klaus Wowereit and Wang Hongju of Berlin and Chongqing respectively.
In its exclusive report the magazine said no city globalizes on its own. But with shrewd investments and smart urban planning, a mayor can help turn a regional player into a global powerhouse.
In its exclusive report the magazine said no city globalizes on its own. But with shrewd investments and smart urban planning, a mayor can help turn a regional player into a global powerhouse.
About Syed Mustafa Kamal the magazine wrote that the mayor of Karachi is an unlikely poster child for innovative urban planning. The 36-year-old Syed Mustafa Kamal governs a city that’s more often in the news for religious violence than cosmopolitan ways. But the hard-charging Kamal is looking to change all that. He’s courting foreign investment, encouraging international ties, and boosting the city’s tourism. Kamal isn’t shy about his goals: He has said he wants to turn Karachi into the “next Dubai.” His Green Karachi project aims to plant thousands of trees in the city. Kamal isn’t letting anything stand in the way of his grand plans: He has threatened to arrest anyone who tries to cut down the new saplings.Meanwhile City Nazim Syed Mustafa Kamal has thanked almighty for this appreciation and congratulated his party leader Mr. Altaf Hussain.
In a statement from London on Sunday, Syed Mustafa Kamal said that all credit for this should go to my leader Mr. Altaf Hussain who has selected the representatives from lower and middle class that represents 98 percent of the total population of the country. It is also the recognition of the philosophy of MQM and the 30 year long struggle of its leader Mr. Altaf Hussain.
He said that in past owner ship concept was not existed in Karachi, however we owned this city and carried out development works on large scale and despite of that lot of work is still to be done.
He said that provided the Haq Parast continued with the city government, all unresolved problems will also be solved in future. Mustafa Kamal said that despite of all the obstacles and different kinds of challenges and difficulties faced by my team, we have never let down our people and we will continue to do so in future also.
Citing the absence of one command and controlling authority for the city, Nazim Karachi said that at present 13 organizations are controlling the city’s municipal affairs which have made the situation very difficult for development of city. We have contacted every where from top to bottom and from the President of Pakistan everyone who has anything to do with the policy and decision making and now they should pay attention on this.
He said that Karachi is no ordinary city but it is the backbone of national economy. We have developed Karachi so that the country could also develop and the people of Pakistan get the fruit of prosperity. Nazim Karachi said that my whole team from a peon and driver to top city government officials, City Naib Nazim, town nazims, union nazims and all elected representatives of Karachi played their important role in the recognition of my performance at international level.
CITY GOVERNMENT COMPLETES CONSTRUCTION OF 52 OVERHEAD PEDESTRIAN BRIDGES.
Karachi Jan 31: On the directive and policy of City Nazim Syed Mustafa Kamal City District Government Karachi has completed the construction of 52 overhead pedestrian bridges in the city with a cost of Rs.880million. These bridges have been constructed at different points on all three signal free corridors and other busy thoroughfares.
City Government had planned the construction of 116 pedestrian bridges in the current year out of which 52 bridges were completed and in the next phase construction of 30 more overhead pedestrian bridges was going to begin soon for which already Rs.600million has been sanctioned. City Government will initiate third phase of the project after completion of second phase bridges which would involve the construction of further 34 pedestrian bridges in the city to complete all 116 bridges in the current fiscal year. These bridges have been constructed at different places on signal free corridor I, II, III, Sharae Faisal, Manghopir Road, Shahra-e-Pakistan, near IBA and other educational institutions in the city to provide convenience in crossing the road.
Meanwhile Nazim Karachi Syed Mustafa Kamal has directed EDO Transport and Communication to further expedite work on pedestrian bridges. He said that after the construction of signal free corridors and wide roads in the city the traffic speed has increased and therefore it was required to construct pedestrian bridges for the convenience of citizens in crossing roads. City Government had after consultation with the traffic engineering experts and under the survey of all busy and important places in the city selected 116 places for construction of overhead pedestrian bridges out of which 52 pedestrian bridges have been completed and were in use of public while work on 30 more bridges will also start soon.
Citizens of Karachi have appreciated the construction of overhead pedestrian bridges on busy point in the city. They said that the bridges have provided convenience in crossing roads especially during rush hours while they also added to the beauty of newly constructed corridors in the city.
City Government had planned the construction of 116 pedestrian bridges in the current year out of which 52 bridges were completed and in the next phase construction of 30 more overhead pedestrian bridges was going to begin soon for which already Rs.600million has been sanctioned. City Government will initiate third phase of the project after completion of second phase bridges which would involve the construction of further 34 pedestrian bridges in the city to complete all 116 bridges in the current fiscal year. These bridges have been constructed at different places on signal free corridor I, II, III, Sharae Faisal, Manghopir Road, Shahra-e-Pakistan, near IBA and other educational institutions in the city to provide convenience in crossing the road.
Meanwhile Nazim Karachi Syed Mustafa Kamal has directed EDO Transport and Communication to further expedite work on pedestrian bridges. He said that after the construction of signal free corridors and wide roads in the city the traffic speed has increased and therefore it was required to construct pedestrian bridges for the convenience of citizens in crossing roads. City Government had after consultation with the traffic engineering experts and under the survey of all busy and important places in the city selected 116 places for construction of overhead pedestrian bridges out of which 52 pedestrian bridges have been completed and were in use of public while work on 30 more bridges will also start soon.
Citizens of Karachi have appreciated the construction of overhead pedestrian bridges on busy point in the city. They said that the bridges have provided convenience in crossing roads especially during rush hours while they also added to the beauty of newly constructed corridors in the city.
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