BADIN, Aug 9: Sindh Population Welfare Minister Syed Ali Bux Shah has criticized a British oil exploration company working in Badin for its non-cooperation in welfare work , especially when an emergency has been declared in the district.

The minister on Sunday expressed concern over the attitude of company officials while reviewing a plan prepared by the district administration to meet any emergency during rains and cyclones.

The minister was told that the oil exploration company had not responded to a written demand for making 10 vehicles available during the emergency. Mr Shah said he would lodge a complaint with the Sindh chief minister and the federal minister for petroleum against the company.

DCO Syed Mumtaz Ali Shah briefed the minister on measures taken by the district administration. He said 22 safe places had been selected for rain-affected people. He added that a number of vehicles and 10 boats had been arranged for the purpose.

He said 18 warning centres, six relief centres and 112 relief camps had also been established. Later, the minister visited relief centres. He announced establishment of a permanent community rescue centre for rain-hit people in the coastal village of Bhugra Memon.

The minister stressed the need for creating awareness among people about precautionary measures during floods. He said proper facilities should be provided in affected areas.

Meanwhile, DCO Syed Mumtaz Ali Shah has asked people of Badin to remain alert for the next 36 hours in the wake of forecast by the meteorological department about heavy rains and cyclones in the district.

He said emergency centres at the taluka level had been set up with telephone lines - Badin (61996), Golarchi (53053) and Tando Bago (54038). An emergency centre had also been established at the minister's residence in the Vanai village, with phone number 61389, he added.