ISLAMABAD, Sept 21: Ministry of Labour, Manpower and Overseas Pakistanis has approved three projects worth Rs15 million for the welfare of bonded labourers. According to official sources, the Board of Directors of Bonded Labour Fund recommended these projects and decided to allocate the amount for these projects from the Bonded Labour Fund.

Under one of the projects low cost houses will be built around Hyderabad with an amount of Rs9.7 million. The project will be executed in collaboration with National Rural Support Programme.

Sources said the board also approved setting up of Legal Aid Service for Bonded Labourers in the Punjab and NWFP on the proposal of the respective provincial governments.

Under the legal aid service free phone helpline will be established in the department of labour. Free expert legal advice and assistance will be provided to bonded labourers through this service.—APP