KARACHI, Oct 4: Sindh Chief Minister Dr Arbab Ghulam Rahim has stated that the land reclaimed from sea is the property of the province under the Sindh Land Revenue Act.

He was responding to journalists’ question at an Iftar party hosted by MPA Jam Madad Ali Khan, Chairman of the Sindh Assembly Public Accounts Committee, at his residence on Wednesday.

He said he was not opposed to the project envisaging development of twin islands, Bundal and Buddo, located close to the Port Qasim, as any investment in the province would contribute to its further development, besides generating employment opportunities and accelerating economic activities.

He pointed out that there was no population on these islands but they appeared very attractive and beautiful. He said even after allotment of the twin islands to a builder, their ownership would remain with the province.

In reply to another question, he said the Port Qasim Authority and the Ministry of Ports and Shipping claimed that at the time of the construction of the Port Qasim, the twin islands were also given to the PQA. However, he added, he had asked the two authorities to produce documents as evidence to prove the claim so that the islands’ ownership could be determined.

The chief minister said that his meeting with Mehar Brothers and Lunds at the residence of Sardar Ali Gohar Mehar on Wednesday was productive as it narrowed down differences on issues relating to Ghotki. He said the disputes that had cropped up earlier had amicably been resolved.

When his attention was drawn to the controversy involving the PML chief, Chaudhry Shujaat Hussain and the Muttahida Qaumi Movement’s Coordination Committee, Dr Arbab said it should not have been there.

However, he added, it was a matter between elders.

“We are partners in the ruling coalition and such things should not have taken place among us. However, there is no threat to the existence of the government and as far as my leadership is concerned, there is no problem that could raise a question as our coalition is working quite smoothly.”