KARACHI, Dec 10: Sindh Chief Minister Dr Arbab Ghulam Rahim has said that the government will give a boost to cattle farming and fishing sectors to bring about a rapid change in people’s standard of living in the province.
Talking to newsmen after chairing a high-level meeting at the CM’s House here on Sunday, he said the government had earmarked Rs395 million for setting up cattle colonies in 22 districts of Sindh. This will ensure a smooth supply of meat and fresh milk at affordable prices to people.
Every cattle colony will be spread over 200 acres with 50 sheds each for cattle, he said, adding that a sum of Rs133 million was earmarked for construction of roads in the cattle colonies. He said that the Dairy Pakistan Limited had assured the government of full cooperation in the project. The firm would help construct at least 30 cattle farms, besides sharing its technical and administrative experience.
Dr Arbab said that the firm would also provide financial assistance for cattle-head procurement for these farms. He said the government would also benefit from the experience of other major private companies in this field.
He said that farmers of Sindh would encouraged to undertake study tours to modern cattle farms in Punjab.
The chief minister said that he had directed the officials concerned to ensure provision of all necessary facilities to the cattle colonies.
Regarding the fishing sector, he pointed out that modern facilities were being set up at the Karachi Fish Harbour to give further boost to fishing and bring it at par with the international standards. He said this would also help maximise seafood exports.
Dr Arbab stressed on following EU standards to ensure increased seafood exports to the European countries. He noted that the chilling plant at the Karachi Fish Harbour was being modernised and special attention was being paid to hygienic conditions at the harbour. He also noted that equipment for mechanised cleaning at the facility had already been procured.
The chief minister pointed out that a sum of Rs375 million had been earmarked in the current annual development programme for the construction of a jetty at the harbour, and hoped that after completion of various uplift projects there, it would become a harbour of international standards.—PPI
