KARACHI, June 14: The Sindh government has released Rs40 million for the up gradation of market and auction hall of the Karachi Fish Harbour, it is learnt. A new site for the construction of market and auction meant for export to the European Union countries has been selected and work on it has already been started.

Though a target for 30 days has been fixed, but it is likely to be completed before the scheduled time.

The provincial government has already constituted a 4-member committee to oversee and monitor the improvement and development work of the harbour.

A meeting of the committee chaired by Shujat Ali Qarni was held here which discussed matters pertaining to the development of the harbour.

Talking to Dawn, Mr Qarni said top priority was being given to the development of the harbour to meet the requirements of international market, particularly the European Union countries being major importers of Pakistani seafood.

At the same time he said equal importance was being attached to the welfare of fishermen. Along with the development of harbour, he added steps would be taken to improve the living conditions of the fishermen.

Mr Qarni reminded that the plan for establishing a model school for the children of fishermen was under consideration and efforts were being made to acquire a suitable land.

A proposal for establishing a book lending library to the children of fishermen is also under consideration, he added.

Regarding small fishermen complaints about high-handedness of watch and ward staff of the KPT, he said he had received a letter from small fishermen and the matter would be taken up to the higher authorities of the KPT, hoping that the matter would be resolved amicably.