KARACHI: The Infrastructure Development Board (IDB) was revived by Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah on Thursday.

The newly revived board will induct industrialists and members of civil society for the uplift of industrial zones.

Mr Shah took the decision in a meeting with a delegation of the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI) led by S.M. Muneer. The meeting was attended by Sindh Minister for Industries and Commerce, Manzoor Wassan and Secretary for Industries Abdul Rahim Soomro. The FPCCI delegation included Senator Abdul Haseeb, Khalid Tawab and Zulfikar Shaikh.

The FPCCI delegation said infrastructure in industrial areas had almost collapsed. The roads have become a nightmare for motorists with craters and garbage dumps have been increasing.

Reviving the IDB, the chief minister asked for the induction of representatives from different industrial zones so that they could help in keeping roads, drainage system, water supply and other facilities up to date.

He said the government has already released Rs10 billion for the reconstruction of some key roads in the city, including those in Korangi Industrial Area.

Mr Shah directed the provincial minister of industries to conduct a detailed survey and send him findings with recommendations.

He also industrialists to invest in newly established industrial zone in Khairpur where all facilities, including power, electricity and water, had been provided.

Mr Muneer said he would talk to industrialists in this regard.

Mr Shah also asked delegates to use their influence to invite foreign investment. He said would set up one-widow facility for new investors.

The FPCCI appreciated the chief minister’s move to open the markets at 9am and assured him of full support.

Published in Dawn, September 30th, 2016