• Orders integration of emergency response vehicles with Nadra, excise database
• Distributes awards among diplomats for bringing investment to Sindh

KARACHI: Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah has directed the Safe City Authority to integrate the Emergency Response Vehicles (ERVs) with the database of the National Database and Registration Authority (Nadra), and Excise and Taxation Department to avail real-time access to identity and vehicle registration data, in order to enable swift action in case of emergencies.

He said this during a visit to the headquarters of the Safe City Authority in DHA on Monday.

Accompanied by Home Minister Ziaul Hassan Lanjar, the CM received a briefing from DG Sindh Safe City Authority Asif Aijaz Shaikh on the project’s progress and capabilities.

Expressing satisfaction with the project’s progress, the CM directed the Karachi Safe City Authority to expedite efforts to complete the project by next year.

The CM reiterated his government’s commitment to enhancing Karachi’s security infrastructure through advanced technology.

The ERVs, a key component of the Safe City project, are equipped with state-of-the-art features designed to improve emergency response times. These features include advanced Artificial Intelligence (AI) systems capable of facial and license plate recognition, which allow swift identification of suspects and vehicles involved in incidents, the CM was told.

Mr Shah stressed the critical need for seamless data integration to maximise the ERVs’ effectiveness.

He directed the DG Safe City to integrate the ERVs’ systems with both Nadra and the Excise and Taxation Department. This integration will provide real-time access to vital information such as individual identities and vehicle registration details, enabling immediate and targeted action during emergencies, he said, and emphasised that this real-time data access was crucial for efficient emergency response.

The briefing also covered the broader plan to connect the entire Safe City infrastructure with Nadra and excise systems to create a comprehensive, interconnected surveillance and response network.

The CM ordered a phased rollout of the 23 ERVs planned for deployment across Karachi.

Meanwhile, the CM presented awards to the consuls general of China, the United States, the United Kingdom, France, Italy, the Middle East and the United Arab Emirates in recognition of their contributions to attracting investment.

Speaking at the 8th Diplomatic & Foreign Investment Award Ceremony 2024 here, the CM stated that his government had implemented various constructive measures to instil confidence in both foreign and local investors.

He expressed hope that these investment-friendly policies, at both the national and provincial levels, would contribute to the country’s desired economic growth in the coming years.

Mr Shah commended the Diplomatic Forum for Socio-Economic Foundation for its significant efforts in organising the awards.

The CM acknowledged the crucial role of foreign investors in Pakistan’s economic development over a significant period and noted that multinational companies were successfully conducting business in Pakistan, particularly in Sindh.

He also recognised the positive contributions of foreign diplomats in Pakistan, who have played a vital role in encouraging multinational companies from their respective countries to invest in Pakistan and Sindh.

Published in Dawn, December 31st, 2024