THIS refers to lack of infrastructure — in some cases the complete absence of it — in one of Karachi’s largest industrial estates, Korangi Industrial Area (KIA).

Our manufacturing unit is located off Korangi Road amidst big textile, pharmaceutical, denim and other giants near Allahwala Town. Despite being in the highly sought-after ‘sector 23’ Korangi area, the roads are completely damaged, filled with either rubble or rubbish. There are overflowing sewerage lines and stagnant sewerage water in most areas — all making accessing the factory an unnecessarily hard task.

Our neighbours, especially the large pharmaceutical companies have managed to patch small sections outside their facilities (most likely out of their own pockets), but unfortunately us small timers do not have the funds to do this and heavily rely on the government to at least provide us good infrastructure to get to work peacefully.

With worsening road and traffic conditions, businesses are losing time and money. Suppliers have to take lengthy detours and, in some cases, flatly refuse to come to these areas.

Labourers demand extra conveyance money to work at this location versus others, putting an added strain on business. Without raw material for production or labour to run the plants, are we expected to shut down our operations?

Small to medium size businesses are an integral part of Pakistan’s economy. They provide jobs, contribute to the GDP and fuel economic development. The government should at least provide basic amenities.

We want the prime minister to take notice of this.

Sherbano Dossa
Karachi

Published in Dawn, March 3rd, 2020