Sindh Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon has announced that Sindh possesses ample resources to address the country’s energy crisis. He criticized the federal government’s policies, alleging that they are major obstacles to the development of the province’s energy sector.
Memon stated that a revolution in the energy sector could be achieved if Sindh were provided with authority and infrastructure proportionate to its resources. He encouraged dialogue among experts, stakeholders, and decision-makers on the province’s energy potential and environmentally friendly alternative energy sources.
Referring to the Thar Coal project, Memon informed that 30 million tons of coal have fueled various Independent Power Producers (IPPs) in the last six years, generating 31 gigawatts of electricity and powering approximately 3 million homes. He emphasized that Thar coal has the potential to meet Pakistan’s electricity needs for several decades.
The minister also highlighted the Sindh government’s construction of a 105-kilometer railway line to connect Thar coal to national and international markets. He emphasized Sindh’s progress in renewable energy, mentioning active wind corridors and several ongoing solar energy projects. He added that the Nooriabad Power Plant is currently supplying 100 megawatts of electricity to Karachi.
Memon disclosed a provincial budget of Rs. 2.5 billion for solar energy projects and the provision of free electricity (up to 200 units) to Thar residents. He also announced two additional solar power plants in Karachi, along with solar energy projects in Manjhand (Hyderabad) and planned solar installations in Sukkur and Larkana. He appealed to the federal government to remove obstacles and fully cooperate with Sindh’s projects, especially ceasing opposition to the province’s solar and wind energy initiatives.
Moving on, Memon announced an ongoing campaign against illegal constructions and encroachments across the province. The Sindh Building Control Authority has issued notices to 37 unsafe buildings in Sukkur alone, while reviews are underway in Karachi, Hyderabad, Larkana, and Nawabshah. He warned that administrative and legal action would be taken against officials involved in illegal constructions.
Regarding high water levels in the Indus River, Memon reported a low-level flood situation at Guddu and Sukkur barrages. He assured that the Sindh Irrigation Department and the Provincial Disaster Management Authority are continuously monitoring all barrages, embankments, and sensitive locations. Relief camps and resources have been deployed in at-risk areas and low-lying settlements, and the public is urged to cooperate with authorities in case of evacuation.
Memon also commented on the increase in stomach, intestinal, diarrhea, and viral diseases following monsoon rains. The Health Department has initiated emergency services in all government hospitals and is establishing mobile medical camps in Karachi, Thatta, Badin, and other areas. Citizens are advised to drink safe water and avoid unhygienic food.
Finally, Memon dismissed “baseless misinformation” regarding the new vehicle registration system, clarifying that it is a method to update registration procedures, prevent illegal activities, and address vehicle theft. He affirmed the Sindh government’s readiness to address the legitimate concerns of the public and declared that public welfare programs would not be allowed to be politicized.