KARACHI, Jan 1: Sindh Chief Secretary Dr Mutawakkal Kazi on Thursday called for steps to address public complaints regarding shortage of medicines in hospitals.

The chief secretary had sought a report in this regard which said that medicines were procured under a rate contract system in the light of suggestions of the World Bank and other organizations concerned. According to the report, various provisions under the rules and regulations were observed for enforcement of the system.

It said the successful bidders of November 2003 had been awarded contracts and they had started supplying medicines which were being distributed under the supervision of the provincial health department.

Dr Kazi directed Coordination Deputy Secretary Nokhaiz Anwer Siddiqui to keep contact with the health department and take measures for redressing complaints in this regard.

ENCROACHMENT: The chief secretary has directed the local government department and the deputy inspector-general of police, traffic, to implement the orders issued for the removal of encroachments from below the Liaquatabad flyover, installation of traffic signals and repair of roads there. He has sought a report in this regard within 15 days. -APP/PPI