KARACHI: Industrialists on Thursday called off the proposed shutdown after getting assurance from the federal government that the issue of water and power shortage would be resolved on priority basis.

Decision to this effect was made after a telephonic discussion was held between Secretary to Prime Minister Fawad Hasan Fawad and Coordinator Karachi Industrial Forum (KIF) Muhammad Jawed Bilawani.

Mr Fawad, who is currently in Landon, assured Mr Bilwani that the federal government has taken notice of power and water crisis in Karachi. He gave assurance that the government will resolve the issue on top priority.

Following the telecon, heads of all towns and industrial associations agreed to call off the strike. They also appreciated Chief Minister Sindh Murad Ali Shah for taking notice of the situation.

In a press conference held on April 17, presidents of seven industrial estates of Karachi announced an industrial shutdown if the government failed to resolve water and electricity crisis within 48 hours.

Published in Dawn, April 20th, 2018