KARACHI (HRNW): In a strategic move to address the deteriorating infrastructure and ensure the timely completion of development works in the provincial capital, the Sindh government has decided to reactivate the Local Government Mega Project unit. Under this revitalized framework, all major development schemes for Karachi will be managed through the Mega Project division, reverting to a system previously used for large-scale urban interventions.
Major Administrative Overhaul in KMC Engineering
Reliable sources indicate that the Sindh Local Government Department has taken serious notice of increasing complaints regarding corruption and irregularities within the Karachi Metropolitan Corporation (KMC) Engineering Department. Key changes include:
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Restoring the DG Technical Services: The government plans to fill the vacant post of Director General (DG) Technical Services. Currently, the department is being managed by a “Senior Director” (a post created by the Mayor of Karachi), but sources claim this experiment has failed as powerful engineers often bypass this authority.
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Reallocation of Financial Powers: The Drawing and Disbursing Officer (DDO) powers, which were previously shifted to the Financial Advisor, are expected to be transferred back to the DG Technical Services to streamline project funding and accountability.
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Leadership Candidates: The additional charge of DG Technical Services is likely to be handed to Special Secretary Technical Azhar Hussain Shah or former DG Tariq Mughal.
Engagement of Senior Experts
To counter public criticism over the city’s crumbling infrastructure, the ruling party and the Local Government Department are considering hiring seasoned retired officers for project monitoring. High-profile names under consideration for these tasks include Niaz Soomro (currently Project Director of the Malir Expressway) and Tariq Rafiq (former Chief Engineer of KDA).
The decision marks a significant shift in the administration of Karachi’s development, signaling a move toward more centralized and technically led oversight to curb bureaucratic delays and mismanagement within KMC.
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