CM Murad Ali Shah says Sindh produces 70pc of the country’s gas, is not receiving its due rights, instead of benefiting from its natural resources, Karachi’s industries are forced to use RLNG
By Abdul Rafay Siddiqi
KARACHI: Chief Minister Sindh Syed Murad Ali Shah emphasized Sindh’s potential as Pakistan’s energy powerhouse during the inauguration of the 19th My Karachi – Oasis of Harmony Exhibition at the Expo Center on Friday. Addressing the gathering, Shah highlighted the province’s capacity to generate cheaper electricity through its abundant coal resources in Tharparker and by establishing additional gas-run power plants similar to the Nooriabad Power Plant.
Shah criticized the high electricity rates, noting that the cost of electricity from the 100-megawatt Nooriabad power plant to Karachi is Rs15.80 per unit, while Karachi’s industries are charged between Rs48 to Rs52 per unit. He suggested that with the establishment of more power plants utilizing Sindh’s gas resources, the province could offer electricity at least 50 percent lower than the current tariff within three to five years.
The Chief Minister lamented that Sindh, which produces 70 percent of the country’s gas, is not receiving its due rights as stipulated in the Constitution. Instead of benefiting from its natural resources, Karachi’s industries are forced to use RLNG, leading to higher costs and contributing to unemployment due to industrial closures. Shah called for unity among government, industry, and citizens to address these challenges and promote Karachi’s and Sindh’s prosperity.
Shah praised Karachi’s resilience, describing it as both an “Oasis of Harmony” and an “Oasis of Hope” for Pakistan. He urged for a strong collective voice to rectify injustices against Karachi and Sindh, particularly regarding gas resource rights. The Sindh government plans to invest over Rs200 billion in infrastructure development projects for Karachi in 2024-25.
This includes constructing a water canal from Hub to provide an additional 50 MGD to Karachi. Addressing street crime and enhancing Karachi’s exports from 54 percent to 80 percent are also priorities for the Sindh government. Shah acknowledged the late Siraj Teli’s contributions to the My Karachi Exhibition, praising his vision and the exhibition’s continued success.
Chairman Businessmen Group Zubair Motiwala echoed the need for support in resolving issues related to gas and electricity tariffs, which have led to industrial unit closures. He called for a shift from RLNG to indigenous gas resources for Sindh and sought the Chief Minister’s assistance in addressing water shortages affecting Karachi’s industries. The exhibition, recognized both nationally and internationally, showcases Pakistan’s manufacturing and trading sectors, drawing participation from countries like Iran, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Russia, and China.
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