KARACHI CITY GOVERNMENT ESTABLISH SPECIAL FUND FOR AFFECTED TRADERS

City District Government Karachi has established a special fund for prompt and quick rehabilitation of traders and shopkeepers who lost their all belongings in the fire incident at M.A Jinnah Road on Ashura.

This was announced by City Nazim Syed Mustafa Kamal in a well attended press conference held in the committee room of Civic Center on Wednesday. City Naib Nazim Nasreen Jalil, Senior Presiding Officer City Council Masood Mehmood, Leader of the council Muhammad Asif Siddiqui and member city council Sarwat Arif Advocate and Nadeem Hyat Hashmi Nazim Karachi were also present on this occasion.

On this occasion Nazim Karachi also appealed to government to compensate the trader’s community and shopkeepers as 50 percent cash payment and 50 percent loan without interest so that they could be rehabilitated as early as possible. He said that the fund is being established on the directive of Quaid-e-Tehreek Mr. Altaf Hussain and the city government has already opened account number 31618-0 for collection of donations in the Habib Bank, KMC Branch.

He said that Quaid-e-Tehreek had expressed desire for early rehabilitation of all the affectees and he had directed me and Naib City Nazim to establish this fund. City Nazim said that Quaid-e-Tehreek has a huge following and a large number of his workers and lovers would like to donate in this fund while the city government will also have a share in this fund. He also appealed to the people of Karachi to donate in this fund so that the affected business community could be rehabilitated soon.

Replying a question City Nazim said that the fire brigade has completed the fire extinguishing operation in the affected buildings of Bolton Market and the situation was totally under control. He however asked the people to avoid gathering in the affected area as their presence was creating hurdles in the swift working of fire brigade.

City Nazim said that Chamber of Commerce and Industry Karachi has also been involved in the fund established by city government and the collected money will be used through its representatives and the associations of business community. He also clarified that the city nazim or any coming administrator would have no role in its disbursement. Nazim Karachi said that our task will only be completed after full rehabilitation of all the affected traders and shopkeepers and till that time we will continue our efforts on a war footing basis. He said that the city government has also started survey of the losses suffered by the traders so that the total loss could be ascertained.

City Naib Nazim Nasreen Jalil said that the business community in Karachi was like the back bone of our economy and their loss would not be limited to themselves but adversely affect the whole economy of Pakistan. She said that we will have to work on emergency basis to combat this situation. City Naib Nazim demanded that the funds of crores of rupees allocated by federal government for rehabilitation of heritage should also be used for the restoration and reconstruction of heritage buildings at M.A Jinnah Road.

U.S. Embassy Condemns Terrorist Attacks in Muzaffarabad and Karachi

Islamabad - The U.S. Embassy in Pakistan condemns the terrorist attacks targeting innocent people during Muharram processions on Sunday and Monday in Muzaffarabad and Karachi.

We extend our condolences to the victims' families and friends, and to the Pakistani people. (Press Release)

KARACHI NAZIM DEMANDS FULL ENQUIRY OF FIRE INCIDENT

City Nazim Syed Mustafa Kamal has pledged to make Karachi the epitome of peace and harmony saying that the present conspiracy against the peace and prosperity of Karachi will be thwarted with mutual harmony and brotherhood.

Talking to media representatives on Tuesday at M.A Jinnah Road he said that the enemies had conspired to commit bloodshed in the peaceful and beautiful city of Pakistan. They wanted to bring the citizens against each other but we will foil this conspiracy with a show of mutual harmony and brotherhood.

City Nazim condemned the terrorist act in the main Ashura Procession and prayed for those martyred in the incident. He also prayed for quick recovery of the injured. He said that the enemy has attacked the only peaceful city of the country and tried to disrupt the peace process. Besides terrorist act the miscreants also torched hundreds of shops and buildings in the commercial hub of the city which caused a collateral damage to dozens of buildings and huge loss to citizens. He demanded thorough enquiry into the incident that has inflicted great loss to economy as well.

Giving the reasons for delay in the fire extinguishing operation City Nazim said that in all 300 locations from Light House to Bolton Market at M.A Jinnah Road were set on fire in the incident while the fire brigade was prevented to take immediate action as they opened fire on fire brigade vehicles and injured the firemen. Despite of that first of all we initiated rescue operation to save the residents stranded in buildings. He said that the presence of a good number of ware houses, storage of chemicals and plastic material and cloths also intensified the blaze.

Nazim Karachi said that besides using our own resources we also called for help to other organizations and the district nazim Hyderabad Knwar Naved was asked to provide the fire tenders and snorkel ladder on which he sent 5 fire tenders and a snorkel to Karachi to take part in the operation. The tanker service of KWSB was also used to supply water in enough quantity to fire tenders.

This may be noted that the City Nazim Syed Mustafa Kamal personally monitored the fire extinguish and rescue operation in Bolton Market and other locations at M.A Jinnah Road with DCO Karachi Javed Hanif and M.D KWSB. After reviewing the situation from Central Command and Control Center of City Government and issuing directives to officials he instantly reached the affected area at M.A Jinnah Road at 12 O’ Clock in the night and remained their till the next day while personally monitoring the operation.

LIFE-SAVING APPEAL (Running short of time)

My name is Najamuddin Ahmed and I am only 32 years old, married. I’ve been suffering from Lever Cancer (Hepatitis C) for past few years and now it’s on the last stage. The Doctors have suggested that I can only be survived by having a Liver Transplantation on an urgent basis as it’s the only option for end-stage liver disease. Hepatitis Cis considered as one of the expensive medical treatments. This transplantation facility is presently not available in Pakistan. In the region, liver transplants are done in India and China. In China it costs approximately Rs.50 lakhs (in Pak Rupees), whereas, in India it would cost Rs.22 lakhs (in Indian Rupees) equivalent to Rs.37 lakhs in Pak Rupees (1 Indian Rupee=1.68 Pak Rupee). As I belong to a middle class family, this amount is unaffordable for me and my family. Some of my relatives and neighbors are doing their hard in this regard and managed to collect Rs.16 lakhs, however, we are still running short of a hefty amount of Rs.21 lakhs.

The transplantation procedure requires a healthy living donor to donate a portion of liver, which is then transplanted into diseased liver. The donor’s liver regenerates within 4-6 weeks. Fortunately, my 18 years old nephew is ready to donate the required “tissues” from his liver.

I strongly request to all my brothers and sisters to kindly help me in saving my life and enable me to become a healthy part of this society. I pray that the Allah Almighty would give you the best reward against your favor and cooperation for this noble cause.

You can contact following doctors for the purpose of any inquiry or verification:

Dr.Mukesh kumar
Agha Khan Hospital, Karachi

Cell# +92-333-3599206

File no:135062

OPD Treatment

Dr. Zaigum Abbas & Dr. Mujahid
Assistants to Dr. Adeeb Rizvi
(SIUT)
Case number is 00-90-91

My Contact Details Bank Account Details:
House # A-117, Block-12, Gulberg,
F.B Aera, Karachi.
Cell# +92-300-200 1201

N.I.B Bank

Branch: F.B. Area, Karachi

Title of account: Najam uddin
Account no: 5029-0012874-0001

My scanned reports are attached for your reference

Contact persons
1. Anis Ahmed khan 0300-2078678 Brother in Law

2. Mehreen Masood 0302-2226842 Sister in law

Correspondence with Dr.Sanjiv Saigal (INDIA)
Dr. Sanjiv Saigal
MD, DM, DNB, MRCP(Edinburgh, UK), CCST(Gastroenterology, UK)
Liver Transplant Fellowship, King's College Hospital, London, UK

Chief Transplant Hepatologist
Consultant Hepatologist and Gastroenterologist
Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, New Rajinder Nagar, N.Delhi- 110060

Liver OPDs:
Room No. F 20, 12-2pm Daily, Phone: 42251754, 1755
Room No. 313A, 2-4pm Daily, Phone: 42251347
Mobile: 09811552928 E-mail: sanjivsaigal@hotmail.com, dr.saigal@hotmail.com
________________________________________
From: dr.saigal@hotmail.com
To: najam02@hotmail.com
Subject: Dr.SANJIV SAIGAL'S REPLY
Date: Monday, December 21, 2009 8:20:41 PM
Dear Mr. Najam,
The cost of liver transplant is about Rs. 21 to 22 Lacs (Indian Rupees). Your total stay in Delhi will be about 3 months. You have to bring your own family related donor. You can also talk to me on Phone: +91 9811552928.

Best wishes,
Dr. Sanjiv Saigal
________________________________________
From: sanjivsaigal@hotmail.com
To: dr.saigal@hotmail.com
Subject: FW: my reports,
Date: Tue, 8 Dec 2009 05:36:54 +0000
Dear Mr. Najam,
Thanks for you mail. In view of your advanced cirrhosis, you should come for liver transplant here. Please send your fax number and also the names of patient, donor and attendant who wish to come to Delhi.

With best wishes,
Dr. Sanjiv Saigal
________________________________________
From: dr.saigal@hotmail.com
To: najam02@hotmail.com
Subject: Dr. Saigal's Reply / Urgent
Date: Mon, 5 Oct 2009 11:41:47 +0530


Dear Mr. Najam,
Thanks for sending me the reports of Mr. Najam. He has advanced hepatitis C related cirrhosis & he needs a liver transplantation. Please send me the name & passport number of those traveling to Delhi. So that we can send the appointment letter urgently. You can also talk to call me on Phone: +91 9811552928.
Best Wishes,
Dr. Sanjiv Saigal

PFUJ concerned over media-government tussle

The Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists (PFUJ) has urged the government, the media owners, the political parties and other democratic forces to shun their differences and unite to save the country from those elements who have waged an open war on the country and wanted to push it to the stone age.

Taking serious notice of the on-going tussle between the government and the free media, the PFUJ has appealed to the government and the media giants to take into account the prevailing situation in the country where all state organs, including the press, are under attack by terrorists.

The current state of affairs demands that all institutions in the country help calm down the situation and work jointly to strengthen democracy, and save the country from the wrath of non-state actors. It also said that efforts be made to put the country to the path of progress and prosperity.

The PFUJ took serious notice of on-going tussles between the government and the Geo / Jang group, adding that it was high time that such a tense situation is resolved with prudence in view of the precarious situation of the country.

Moreover, the PFUJ made it clear that any attempt to victimise the group would be taken very seriously.

The PFUJ also welcomed the prime minister’s assurance to media that “the government resects and values freedom of the press in Pakistan.”

During a discussion with media-persons on Thursday, the prime minister had apologized for the statements made by a few PPP leaders against a leading TV channel and an English language daily.

The PFUJ noted that the statements issued by such PPP leaders had vitiated the atmosphere and PM’s apology would help diffuse tension between government circles and Pakistan’s free media.

However, the PFUJ noted with concern that attempts are afoot to financially cripple Pakistan’s largest media conglomerate, the Jang Group.

The PFUJ observed that such tactics have never worked in the past and would not only damage government’s credibility, but would also jeopardize the livelihood of hundreds and thousands of workers associated with the Jang Group, directly or indirectly. Any attempt to snatch someone’s source of income and rendering people jobless is against PPP’s manifesto and its previous record, the PFUJ said.

The PFUJ also noted that certain elements were making attempts to create differences between the media and the democratic forces for their ulterior motives.

The PFUJ, which has a long history of struggle and had rendered sacrifices to safeguard the freedom of the media during successive military dictatorships, would continue its fight to protect the press freedom and democracy in Pakistan, it said.

To pursue these twin objectives, the PFUJ has asked the government to accept free media’s criticism with open heart which would help improve governance, accountability, transparency and socio-economic situation in the country. The PPP government has a good record to face the media with open heart and it should maintain such a tract record it would enhance its image within the country and abroad.

The PFUJ is optimistic that the PPP government, which has a history of sacrifices for a democratic Pakistan, would continue to follow the golden principles envisioned by its assassinated leadership, for the cause of democracy, rule of law, betterment of the oppressed and depressed classes.

“By facing media criticism boldly and by giving a mature response, it can improve governance. It would not only help democracy to flourish, but would also strengthen media-government relations in a democratic Pakistan”, the PFUJ added.

It was shocking for the PFUJ to observe that at this difficult time, the APNS and CPNE, the two representative bodies of the media conglomerates, have kept a mysterious silence, while the Jang Group has been singled out.

It is high time, that APNS, CPNE and media owners should also respect the rule of law, extend all the lawful benefits to their employees, ensure safety and protection of the media persons, life insurance and capacity building, the PFUJ said.

The PFUJ believes that the APNS and CPNE have failed to show their commitment to a free media and democracy by turning their back once again on this issue for their vested interest.

This is the same apathy and callousness which the APNS and CPNE have been displaying for years by denying financial rights in the shape of 7th Wage Award to newspaper employees while they were themselves building their huge empires, the PFUJ regretted.

The PFUJ urged the country’s largest and most credible media conglomerate to identify its real rivals, which are its own competitors in the industry, and not the working journalists.

These “friends in arms” are playing the role of a Trojan horse who want to pitch the government against the media to discredit the country’s largest media group by loudly propagating the “violations of code of conduct.”

The PFUJ believes that the Jang Group, which also has a glorious history of fighting for press freedom, must set its record straight by snapping ties with these tiny media groups who live as parasite on Jang Group’s standing and credibility.

The Jang Group can sink these industrial liabilities by extending the newspaper employees their rights. The PFUJ added.

CCPO KARACHI, POLICE OFFICIAL MONITOR 9TH MUHARRAM PROCESSION THROUGH COMMAND & CONTROL CENTER

City administration has been facilitated greatly due to the availability of Command & Control Center and surveillance cameras in its monitoring the area from Nishter Park to Tower during Muharram-ul-Haram. So far city government has installed 275 video cameras on different locations and 100 more will be installed within a week. No one can abolish this system in future as any such attempt would be resisted by the people who have owned this system.

This was stated by City Nazim Syed Mustafa Kamal while talking to media representatives on Saturday at Command & Control Center. Earlier he reviewed the city condition specially the situation at Nishter Park and M.A Jinnah Road during the 9th Muharram procession and afterwards attended the procession at M.A Jinnah Road and met with the organizers and religious leaders.

The CCPO Karachi Waseem Ahmed along with SSP Dr. Aamir Yousuf Zai and other police officers were also present on this occasion and inspected the main procession from the screens of command and control room.

City Nazim said that the present day challenges could not be dealt without using latest technology. City Government has provided this facility to administration that has helped and enabled them to monitor the condition of city during Muharram-ul-Haram. He said that the Nishter Park was now regarded as the key place for holding of religious and other people’s gatherings. This system was not specific to Muharram and has been established on permanent basis. All the entrance routes of Nishter Park and its internal area were being monitored completely.

City Nazim said that not only this system was helping the police but was also used to control the fire brigade, ambulance service 1122 and city wardens who are also on the ground. He said that the system could record the data for next 10 years and its capacity was being enhanced on regular basis. The area from Airport to Metropole Hotel and from Saddar to Safoora Chowk(Corridor III) will also include in the coverage area within a week.

The CCPO Karachi Waseem Ahmed on this occasion said that the city government’s command and control system was supported by latest technology and has been proved effective and helpful for Karachi Police. He said that the surveillance system could save the city from any possible terrorist act and the police and other law enforcement agencies could be informed instantly in case of any emergency situation. He also acknowledged the help and coordination received by police from the town nazmeen and the town administration in Karachi.

C&CC MONITOR EVERY INCH OF CITY: NAZIM KARACHI MUSTAFA KAMAL

City Nazim Syed Mustafa Kamal has said that City Government has made best arrangements for Muharram-ul-Haram. The police and CPLC has been provided access to city government’s Command & Control Room to monitor the whole area from Nishter Park to Tower with latest technology. City Government has provided such a latest system to citizens of Karachi that would enable city administration to monitor and check every inch of the city through surveillance video cameras.

He expressed these views after an inspection of the main routes for Muharram processions and while reviewing the monitoring arrangements at Command & Control Center on Saturday.

During the visit he was informed that on the advice of police, this year city government has not set up its camps on the routes of procession but the city wardens and fire brigade with concerned staff and necessary vehicles would remain on their duty at various designated locations.

City Nazim on this occasion said that staff of Sindh Police led by a senior police officer and the CPLC officials would monitor the city condition from C&CC for two days, adding that the city government has already finalized all the arrangements in this regard.

Nazim Karachi said that the whole area from Nishter Park to Tower particularly the M.A Jinnah Road holds much importance due to the holding of religious and political events. City Government has therefore arranged for the monitoring of every inch of this sensitive area and the system was not planned for only Muharram and other emergencies but was working round the clock in all 365 days.

He also expressed hope that the performance of police and other vigilance agencies would get better in future after getting access to the latest surveillance system installed at the city government’s C&CC. City Nazim said that this year too we have made excellent arrangements for Muharram-ul-Haram. Fire brigade, doctors, paramedical staff, ambulances, water and sewerage jetting machines and other facilities have been deployed on various locations so that they could be reached anywhere in case of emergency. During the visit City Nazim also directed for better sanitation in the area and availability of water through tanker service on a priority basis.

Meanwhile the City Government has deployed city wardens, Ambulance 1122, fire brigade and officials of KWSB at Missile Fuwwara Chowrangi and Preedy area in Saddar. The city wardens will also perform their duty in Kharadar, Radio Pakistan, Numaish, Ayesha Manzil, Nishter Park, Incholi, Jamia Sibtain, Abu Turab, Defence Phase IV and at all three signal free corridors.

KIHD LAUNCH TRAINING IN CARDIAC TECHNOLOGY

The Karachi Institute of Heart Diseases has launched training in cardiac technology under three year diploma program after its recognition from the College of Physicians & Surgeons Pakistan. Earlier a special team of CPSP comprising of senior cardiologists inspected KIHD and declared it an appropriate institute for cardiac teaching in cardiac technology. The institute will also be equipped with a cardiac nursing institute.

This was stated by the executive director of KIHD Dr. Abdus Samad while addressing the launching ceremony of diploma in cardiac technology. Those who attended the program included renowned cardiologist Professor S.M. Rab, City Nazim’s Coordinator for Health Affairs Masood Naqi, Principal KMDC Dr. Waqar Kazmi, EDO Health Dr. A.D Sajnani, members of governing body of KIHD and city government health committee. Executive Director Dr. Abdus Samad said that within a short period of three and half years KIHD has been transformed into a well standard cardiac institute of the city and all credit for this goes to City Nazim Syed Mustafa Kamal who has taken special interest in its up gradation from a small clinic to a medical complex. He said that a nursing institute will soon be added in the present set up of KIHD while the medical and surgical wards will also be started soon.

Speaking on the occasion EDO Health Dr. A.D. Sajnani said that it has been an honor for KIHD and City District Government Karachi that the institute has been recognized for cardiac teaching. This is the result of continuous efforts by City Nazim Syed Mustafa Kamal who had taken unprecedented steps for improvement in health sector during last four years. He said that despite of facing worst financial constraints City Government has managed to fulfill all requirements of its hospitals and medical institutes. Principal KMDC Dr. Waqar Kazmi said that the establishment of a well standard cardiac institute was a big achievement of city government. He said that the institute has been equipped with such a latest machinery that was not available at even private hospitals in Pakistan.

Renowned cardiologist Professor S.M. Rab in his address said that Karachi is a big city and the only cardiovascular institute had proved not enough for the requirement of the heart patients from every nook and corner of the city. He said that the institute was in fact like a dream come true for the people and it would surely serve the ailing humanity in a big way. He advised the students to take their studies seriously and set up new examples of excellence in this profession. He said that present was an era of latest technology and must have to equip ourselves with the latest technology. City Nazim Coordinator for Health Affairs Masood Naqi said that the present city government has taken exemplary steps in the health sector during last four years. The completion of second phase of KIHD has so far cost Rs600million.

CITY KARACHI INAUGURATES FAMILY PARK IN NORTH NAZIMABAD

City Nazim Syed Mustafa Kamal inaugurated Shuhada-e-Haq Model Family Park in UC-8 of North Nazimabad Town on Wednesday. Town Nazim Mumtaz Hameed, member Sindh Assembly Abdul Moeed Siddiqui, DCO Karachi Javed Hanif Khan and Executive Director Parks & Horticulture Liaquat Ali Khan were also present on this occasion. City Government has constructed this 4 acre park with a cost of Rs20million.

On this occasion while talking to media representatives Nazim Karachi said that this is the 350th park that has been constructed by present City Government in Karachi. He said that the availability of 350 small and big parks and a good number of sports grounds has led to considerable reduction in the air pollution and the citizens have got better and quality recreation facilities near to their homes.

He said that we have completed thousands of projects during last four years while hundreds of other were still in pipe line and would soon come on the ground. City Nazim said that development was an ongoing process and it never ends at any point. Adding that the present development process in city must continue or the whole nation would have to bear the brunt of its stoppage.

Nazim Karachi said that despite of completing thousands of projects in last few years we believe that not all the problems of citizens have been solved and still we have to do lot of work. He said that city government has constructed many huge and small parks in the city including Bagh Ibne Qasim, Beach Park, Jheel Park and Shaheed Benazir Bhutto Park that would surely provide good recreation facilities to people.

He said that while doing so many works in Karachi we never considered the affiliation of locals to any particular group or party. Besides main city areas, katchi abadies, rural areas and islands were also given equal importance in the journey of development. He also cited the example of Manghopir area where city government has upgraded its old Leprosy Hospital to a modern general hospital with state of the art facilities made available for patients living in that vicinity.

KARACHI HOLDS STRATEGIC IMPORTANCE IN REGION. MUSTAFA KAMAL

City Nazim Syed Mustafa Kamal has said that the city government has presented a successful model of good governance in Karachi which has been appreciated all over the world. During last four years a total of Rs250billion worth development works had been carried out in this city which also holds strategic importance in the region.

He expressed these views while addressing the participants of National Defence Course at a local hotel on Saturday. The 77 member delegation comprising senior army officers from Pakistan, France, Australia, Malysia, Nigeria and other countries was on its study tour to Karachi. The Commandant of National Security College Rear Admiral Khan Hasham representing the delegation thanked City Nazim Syed Mustafa Kamal and DCO Karachi for arranging their visit. He said that they have been much impressed by the rapid progress made by Karachi during last few years and this tour has provided them with a good opportunity to observe this unusual phenomenon closely. Admiral Hasham also appreciated the provision of basic facilities to citizens of Karachi. The documentary “Karachi-The Kohinoor” depicting the four year’s performance of City District Government Karachi was also screened on this occasion.

Nazim Karachi Syed Mustafa Kamal in his address said that we have developed Karachi due to its strategic importance in the region and also due to the fact that the city contributes 68 percent share in the national exchequer. From our first day in office, we set up our strategy with regard to development works and formed a hard working and dedicated team.

He said that in order to ensure transparency in city government works, services of consultants were hired for every important project and a comprehensive system was adopted for accountability at each level besides the arrangement of annual audit. City Nazim said that most of the funds of Rs250billion have been arranged by the city government through better use of its resources, recovery of long standing dues and under public private partnership policy.

Nazim Karachi said that the war on terror can not be won through use of the hard forces alone as this could only be done with the implementation of good governance both in Afghanistan and Pakistan. He said that this war can only get succeed by providing basic amenities of life to people such as clean drinking water, proper sewerage system, education and health facilities.

City Nazim said that in the current scenario Karachi hold importance also due to the reason that the 95 percent of NATO supplies goes through this city. Drinking water for The NATO forces also goes from here and if this supply line cuts off than the NATO forces would have to drink contaminated Afghan water that would create stomach problems for them.

In the end City Nazim Syed Mustafa Kamal and Commandant National Security College Rear Admiral Khan Hasham exchanged mementoes of CDGK and NSC.

Democrats wins Karachi Press Club elections for 2010

“The Democrats” panel won majority of posts in the elections of Karachi Press Club for 2010 held on saturday. The Democrats won eight seats out of total 12 including president-elect Muhammad Imtiaz Khan Faran with 429 votes against Khursheed Tanveer (320 votes), vice-president-elect Amir Latif with 431 votes against Abdul Majid Bhatti (315 votes), secretary-elect A.H. Khanzada with 459 votes against Ashraf Khan (293 votes), joint-secretary-elect Abid Hussain with 362 votes against Arbab Ali Chandio (318 votes) and treasurer-elect Shaikh Mahmood Mian with 411 votes against Syed Hassan Abbas with 315 votes.
The four members of the elected KPC Governing Body belong to “The Panel” as its candidate Ahmed Khan Malik was elected with 328 votes, Ajiz Jamali with 363 votes, Kamran Razi with 319 votes and Zeb Azkar Hussain with 318 votes.
Three elected members of the Governing Body belong to “The Democrats” including Asif Jiaja with 367 votes, Hina Mahgul with 414 votes and Shams Keerio with 365 votes.

Well deserved ICC recognition for Ahmed Mustafa

By Syed Khalid Mahmood

Ahmed Mustafa is one of the very few persons to richly deserve the ICC centenary medal awarded upon the recommendation of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB). He happens to be one of the winners of the medal to be presented by the International Cricket Council (ICC) to 1000 special volunteers from all over the world in recognition for their contribution to the sport.

Ahmed Mustafa is certainly one of those people having dedicated their lifetime to develop the game at the grassroots and nurture the stars of the future. He’s credited to have produced three Test cricketers, Azam Khan, Faisal Iqbal and Owais Shah, who had not even entered their teens at the time of joining his Cricket Coaching Centre (CCC).

The CCC, his labour of love, has helped many other kids fulfill their ambition of playing first-class cricket. The likes of Ali Hussain Rizvi, Mohammad Masroor, Saad Wasim, Mohammad Javed, Maisam Hasnain and Fahad Iqbal had to be grateful to the training they received at the CCC to build their career.

Ahmed Mustafa himself was an aggressive top-order batsman who was not afraid to attack the bowling in an era when the occupation of crease used to be the name of the game. He was one of the contemporaries of the great Hanif Mohammad, whose batting technique was second to none.

Having played for Karachi and made quite an impression, he narrowly missed getting the Pakistan cap because of a tragic road accident. He was in contention for a slot in the national squad when the motorcycle he was riding crashed into a heavy vehicle that caused serious damage to his legs.

He remained associated with the game all along and created a sensation by founding the first-ever cricket academy of the country by the name of Cricket Coaching Centre (CCC) in July 1987.

What a great service to the game he did by having established the CCC! The boys from all over Karachi rushed in to avail the opportunity. Ahmed Mustafa set tough guidelines for selecting the boys for grooming and training. He didn’t believe in doing it for the purpose of public relations. Neither did he approve the idea of making money from coaching as all the services at the CCC were provided free of cost to the trainees.

The CCC has completed two decades of its existence. In fact it has been there for more than 22 years now. Its silver jubilee is not very far away. Ahmed Mustafa has managed to keep the institution afloat, with the support of his like-minded friends, despite the heaviest of odds.

Although laid low by his deteriorating health during the last couple of years, he has still been working with missionary zeal to contribute his bit in the cricket development by running the CCC with limited resources at his disposal.

Quite a few coaching academies have come into prominence in the recent past but it’s the CCC, founded by Ahmed Mustafa, meriting special mention for having pioneered the idea.

Dr. Aafia, children abduction case registered at Gulshan-e-Iqbal PS

Gulshan-e-Iqbal police claimed to have lodged, in their respective police station, the case of abduction of Dr. Aafia Siddiqi and her children against the former present Pervez Musharraf on Monday morning, Geo news reported.

According to sources, Dr. Aafia Siddiqi was abducted with her children from Karachi in 2003 while she was on her way to Quaid-e-Azam International Airport to catch an Islamabad-bound flight.

She remained missing for five years until reports of her detainment in US-based Bagram prison in Afghanistan, were reached here.

Subsequently, upon pressing form Pakistan, US authorities shifted her from Bagram prison to United State for legal trial over charges of carrying out assault on US-allied troops in Afghanistan.

Malaysia Triumphed at the Inaugural ASEAN Karachi Bowling Tournament

KARACHI: Malaysia had a field day in the Inaugural ASEAN Karachi Bowling Tournament winning all three titles of the tournament held on Sunday, 6 December 2009 at a well reputed Bowling Alley in Karachi. The first ever bowling tournament initiated and organised by the Consul General of Malaysia in Karachi, H.E. Mohd Khalid Abdul Razak, saw the participation of all 4 ASEAN countries i.e. Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand and Vietnam. The four teams participated for team event consists of a mix team of 3 men and 2 women and for both men’s and women’s individuals. The ASEAN Consul General and spouses headed their respective teams for the challenge. After battling for more than two hours, Malaysia clinched the team event title by accumulating 1832 pins with Indonesia at the second spot with 1452 pins, followed by Vietnam and Thailand. The Malaysian also took the men’s and women’s individual titles with H.E. Mohd Khalid Abdul Razak clinched the men title and Mrs. Julia Lukman the women title. To make it a complete Malaysian victory, both the runners-up titles for men’s and women’s individuals also went to Malaysian i.e. Mr. Lukman Sayuti and Madam Aniza Khalid. Indonesia took the third spot in men’s individual with Vietnam securing the same position in women’s individual.

During the award giving ceremony, H.E. Consul General of Malaysia recorded his thanks and appreciation to all his ASEAN colleagues and families who had participated in the true spirit of sportsmanship and made the event a thrilling and memorable one. He stated that the sports event will further promote cooperation, understanding and relations among countries of ASEAN in Karachi. The organising of the event also is an ample proof that the metropolis is safe and peaceful for foreigners and portrays ASEAN friendship and solidarity with Pakistan. The Dean of ASEAN Karachi, H.E. Jomphool Manaschuang and Madame Patama from Thailand presented the prizes to the winners and followed by refreshments.

SOLUTION OF BASIC PROBLEMS PREVENTED PEOPLE FROM BECOMING SUICIDE BOMBERS. NAZIM KARACHI

City Nazim Syed Mustafa Kamal has said that we have prevented the citizens from becoming a suicide bomber as during the last four years we have not only worked but also waged jehad by providing basic civic facilities to them
He said this was addressing at a luncheon meeting given in his honor by senior journalist majeed Abbsasi here at a local hotel on Thursday. The program was also attended by the President APNS Qazi Aslam, Vice President APNS Qazi Asad Abid, Dr. Karim Rajpar, Director General NARA Tuaha Farooqi, Mehmood Sham, Columnist Agha Masood, Khalil Ahmed Nenitalwala, Abbas Mehkri, Khushnood Ali Khan, Mujahid Barelvi, Habib Khan Ghori, Faisal Aziz, Mudassir Mirza, Dr. Huma Mir, Dr. S.A Siddiqui, Javed Iqbal, Anwar Ahmed Zai and other prominent persons from print and electronic media.
Speaking on this occasion Nazim Karachi said that the peoples in this country were not provided basic facilities even after 62 years. People are entangles in various problems and facing a serious kind of frustration and due to this they prefer to become a suicide bomber and play with fire. In order to prevent them from becoming suicide bombers we will have to solve their basic problems without further delay. He warned that even if today we failed to take measures for providing citizens the basic civic facilities than 10 crore people out of 17 crore will become suicide bomber. He said today there was no hope for the citizens and citizens are without the health and education facilities and they are fed up now and only want to satisfy themselves from only self immolation.
City Nazim said that during the last four years we have worked for the development of Karachi with an objective that after providing them basic civic facilities some frustration among them would alienated and for this we have worked day and night to solve the problems of the citizens in Karachi and the peoples have fully supported and helped us in our endeavors.

Nazim Karachi said that we we did all these works with pure intentions and a vision to facilitate people. The basic theme was to provide maximum basic civic facilities to the citizens. He pointed out that in Gadap town Cadet College has been established and its 80 percent work has been completed and this area was chosen due to the presence of lot of Goths in this vicinity.
He explained in detail various problems he confronted during his four year tenure but said development of Karachi will ensure development of the country. He also recalled that there should be one chain of command of the city and if there were 13 agencies controlling the city development will always be hampered.
Vice President APNS Qazi Asad Abid, Senior journalist Mehmood Sham and Majeed Abbasi also spoke on this occasion and paid tribute to City Nazim Syed Mustafa Kamal for his outstanding service for the city of Karachi. City Nazim was also presented with traditional Sindhi Ajrak and Sindhi Cap on this occasion…

NED University’s Batool Haider wins first prize

Karachi Observer Report

Batool Arhamna Haider, a second year student of the Petroleum Engineering Department, of the NED University of Engineering & Technology, has clinched first position in the final year student’s paper contest at the SPE International Annual Technical Conference 2009 held recently at a five-star hotel in Islamabad.
The chairman of the department, Prof Dr Abid Murtaza Khan, has congratulated Batool Haider for having brought laurels for the university.
The Petroleum Engineering department of the NED University has been hitting headlines for its accomplishments. Earlier in an international essay competition organized by the NED Alumni Association of South California (NEDAASC) USA, three students of the department, Mohammad Turab Mehdi, Abdur Rafey Zafar and Sami Toor, had shared top positions while Iftikhar Hafeez, a third year student has been selected by IPTC for presentation in Education week being held in Doha, Qatar.

Army Chief visits Karachi

The Chief of Army Staff, General Ashfaq Parvez Kayani visited Karachi today and attended a session of Army War Games organized to determine the operational preparedness of the formations. Chief of Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal Rao Qamar Suleman also attended the session.
Earlier, on arrival at Karachi, Chief of Army Staff General Ashfaq Parvez Kayani was received by the Corps Commander Lieutenant General Shahid Iqbal.

KARACHI NAZIM CHANGE DISPOSAL OF OFFAL OPERATION INTO CLEANLINESS DRIVE.

City Nazim Syed Mustafa Kamal has directed concerned department of city government and all towns and union council’s administration to change the lifting and disposal of offal operation into cleanliness campaign in the city by using the same manpower, machinery and other resources so that the remaining effects of the insanitary conditions due sacrifice of millions of animals during Eid-ul-Azha could be removed completely. He said that the operation for the lifting of offal was still not completed and it will carry on till the full and thorough cleaning of the city.

He expressed satisfaction over the performance of all staff and officers of city government, towns & union council’s administration for taking part in the successful operation. He said that the concerned officials have played a dynamic role in the timely lifting and burial of offal and they did not go to their home till the disposal of all offal in the city.

Nazim Karachi said that this year none of the offal was dumped at the landfill sites because the city government had already managed for the burial of offal of all cantonments and areas controlled by other agencies. During the operation over 2 thousand complaints were received at 1339 which has been resolved within ten minutes.

He said that he himself with DCO Karachi spent all three days of Eid-ul-Azha on roads and streets while overseeing the whole operation. All town nazims, union nazims and elected representatives performed excellently which had given best of results this year too.

The City Nazim said that he also went to Lyari and other suburban and rural areas of the city during the operation and inspected the conditions in the katchi abadies. He said that special attention has been given to rural and backward areas, peoples are best judges, every town has been provided with necessary manpower, vehicles and machinery whenever it required.

He also thanked citizens of Karachi for providing help and cooperation in the swift lifting and disposal of offal during all three days of Eid-ul-Azha and said that operation was still not completed and will continue till the completion of cleaning work.

MUSTAFA KAMAL WARNS OFFICERS TO MEND THEIR WAYS.

City Nazim Syed Mustafa Kamal has warned the officers of city government to avoid unusual delay in the completion of development works or they will have to face strict disciplinary action.

During a review meeting held at the KWSB Chairman Office on Tuesday, City Nazim took serious notice of the slow pace of work on the ongoing projects and viewed that lack of interest of the concerned officers and bribes were the main reason behind unsatisfactory speed of work and the citizens were facing hardships despite of timely payments to contractors.

City Nazim further said that he had visited ongoing development projects in the city on Monday and Tuesday and found the speed of work unsatisfactory. Construction of over head pedestrian bridges was one such example of this sluggish pace of work.

He said that despite of financial problems City Government ensured provision of funds and resources for these projects specially construction of pedestrian bridges so that the citizens could be provided convenience in crossing roads but the concerned officers were not showing interest in the early completion of the projects causing unusual delay in the works.

Nazim Karachi said that construction of 23 pedestrian bridges has been going on since last three months. Despite of payment of Rs200 million, pace of work on these projects has not been accelerated.

He also said that due to the bargaining for commission at higher level, contractor firms were not receiving payments on time and that is why they were not taking interest in development works and the situation causing delay in the completion of works.

He again warned all those officers to mend their ways or be prepared to face the disciplinary action. Citing the example of EDO Iftikhar Qaim Khani who has been removed from his post for committing negligence in his duty, he said that more officers will be removed from their post in next few days.

Transparency International CPI 2009, reveals Corruption in Pakistan increased

The 2009 Corruption Perceptions Index looks at perceptions of public sector corruption in 180 countries and territories, - and is a composite index that draws on 13 expert opinion surveys. It scores countries on a scale from zero to ten, with zero indicating high levels of perceived corruption and ten indicating low levels of perceived corruption. The vast majority of the 180 countries included in the 2009 index score below five on a scale from 0 (perceived to be highly corrupt) to 10 (perceived to have low levels of corruption). The CPI measures the perceived levels of public sector corruption in a given country and is a composite index, drawing on 13 different expert and business surveys. The 2009 edition scores 180 countries, the same number as the 2008 CPI.

In the DOHA UNCAC Conference held on 9-13 November 2009, the United Nations has put a price tag on political corruption -- estimating that up to $1.6 trillion in public assets move across borders each year through networks such as money laundering or into secret holdings.

“Stemming corruption requires strong oversight by parliaments, a well performing judiciary, independent and properly resourced audit and anti-corruption agencies, vigorous law enforcement, transparency in public budgets, revenue and aid flows, as well as space for independent media and a vibrant civil society,” said Labelle. “The international community must find efficient ways to help war-torn countries to develop and sustain their own institutions.” Highest scorers in the 2009 CPI are New Zealand at 9.4, Denmark at 9.3, Singapore and Sweden tied at 9.2 and Switzerland at 9.0. These scores reflect political stability, long-established conflict of interest regulations and solid, functioning public institutions. Pakistan 2009 Corruption Perceptions Index Score is 2.4, and out of 180 countries, its ranking as most corrupt country has slipped 5 ranks, from 47 in 2008 to 42 most corrupt country in 2009.The CPI 2009 reveals the effects of corruption in the subcontinent, which is more alarming in Pakistan, as Bangladesh which was the most corrupt country in 2001, 2002 and 2003, has improved its ranking from 38th most corrupt country in 2008, to 42nd most corrupt country in 2009.

Syed Adil Gilani, Chairman TI Pakistan said TI Pakistan is of the view that Terrorism is the direct result of poverty, resulted only and only due to corruption ( defined as “ Misuse of authority fro private gain”), mainly illegal direct/indirect Armed Forces Rules in Pakistan since 1951 to 2007, fully endorsed by corrupt Judiciary. He further said the positive impacts will be visible next year of the few steps of good governance taken during last one year of the restoration of Judiciary by the Prime Minister by an executive order on 16th March 2009 ( after lawyers movement supported by opposition parties, civil society and above all Media), declaration of Judiciary by the Chief Justice to be Zero Tolerance for Corruption and withdrawal of draft NRO Bill from National Assembly ( on strong protest of opposition of parties and civil society). Transparency International Pakistan also congratulates Pakistan Army, which has proved to the world that Pakistan Armed Forces are the best. The elimination of terrorists in Swat in two months by Pak Army is what USA and NATO forces failed to achieve in 8 years in Iraq and Afghanistan, which has made Pakistan a proud nation. Army Chief has also taken up seriously violation of Public Procurement Rules by DHA and Armed purchases, and advised to follow the rules, which is a healthy sign and warning for those who are violators of rules. He said but the government is governing Pakistan without governance and Pakistan has lost credibility all over the World, due to which the country is facing serious economic threats,, poverty, inflation, food & electricity shortages and increase in unemployment, which are direct results of the massive on going corruption. He said that the government must make serious efforts to apply rules and regulation across the board, to achieve the goal of reducing corruption. In the last ten years, the economic growth of Bangladesh, and deterioration in Pakistan economy can also be judged from the currency parity rates of Pakistan, Bangladesh vs Dollar in 1999: 2009 , Taka/Pak Re was 49.65:51.84 and in 2009 it is Taka/Pak Re 70.39:83.46. He said Pakistan need immediate enforcement of good governance and Transparent administration, to counter the acute problems, of billion of rupees corruption scams reported in Pakistan Steel, TDAP, EOBI, PIA, Rental Power Plants, KESC, NIC, NHA, OGDC, PSO, PEPCO, CDA, DP Division, DHAs, Pakistan Steel TCP, NBP, PC, and many other organizations.
Bribery, cartels and other corrupt practices undermine competition and contribute to massive loss of resources for development in all countries, especially the poorest ones. Between 1990 and 2005, more than 283 private international cartels were exposed that cost consumers around the world an estimated US $300 billion in overcharges, as documented in a recent TI report..
In the 2009 CPI, major sources provided data based on expert analysis were African Development Bank, Asian Development Bank, Bertelsmann Foundation, Economist Intelligence Unit, Freedom House, Global Insight and the World Bank.

Syed Adil Gilani said Political will of the government to fight Corruption is urgently required and must also be seen by public and donor countries, like, formation of Independent Accountability Commission as required by United Nation Convention against Corruption under HOPO Act 2009, to report only to the Parliament or Judiciary and not to the Ministry of Law ( to avoid Conflict of interest and unbiased accountability), and to include all Public Office Holder belonging to Civil Services, Armed Forces Service, Judicial Services and Elected Representatives. All land scams of Punjab, CDA NWFP, Sindh ( specially like gutter baghicha, unauthorised allotments by Nazims, fraudulent change in land records by revenue officers ) , reported in last one year in Media shall be investigated by a Judicial Tribunal, and all Land records shall be computerized within one year. He said Pakistan also requires immediate action through a surgical operation on review and cancel the appointments and promotions not made on merit, and extension of services or reappointment after retirement, remove from the key public offices those who are facing corruption charges, and implementing the effective non-discriminatory accountability mechanism for those civil/defence departments not complying with the procedures including privatization, transparent implementation of rules by regulatory authorities, SECP, CCP, PPRA, EPA, SBP, OGRA, PEMRA, PTA, PFRA etc in order to restore donors agencies, IFIs and investor's confidence.

Anti-mafia social activist gunned down

Convener of Gutter Baghicha Bachao Tehreek and Chairman Karachi NGOs Alliance Nisar Baloch was killed and two passers-by were wounded when gunmen targeted him at Love Lines Bridge within the precincts of Soldier Bazaar Police Station on Saturday.
According to police, 40-year-old Nisar was killed while he was on his way from Old Golimar to Saddar.
As the assailants sprayed bullets on the victim, he tried to escape but fell off his motorbike at Garden Road after receiving multiple wounds. Nisar was immediately rushed to the Civil Hospital but he succumbed to injuries before receiving medical treatment.
The two passers-by, Yousuf (40) and Tariq (31), also sustained bullet injuries and were shifted to the hospital where their condition is stated to be out of danger.
Nisar Baloch, a social activist, was leading a campaign against the land mafia in Old Golimar area. He was a furious opponent of illegal encroachments at Gutter Baghicha.
It is important to recall that Nisar had addressed a news conference at Karachi Press Club against the land grabbers the other day and accused an ethnic political party of backing the illegal encroachers
Nisar’s brother Noor-uddin has said that Nisar’s news conference was the FIR against the killers during which he had mentioned their names.
An FIR (No 331/09) under section 302 and 324 has been registered against the unidentified suspects.
Meanwhile, major parts of Old Golimar and Pak Colony were shutdown in protest against the murder of Nisar Baloch. Soon after the killing, a large number of people took out a rally and staged a sit-in against the brutal act. All the business activities remained suspended while the roads leading towards Bada Board from Old Golimar were also blocked. (The Nation)

Who was Nisar Baloch ?

Nisar Baloch was associated with several NGOs as a known social worker, and was a schoolteacher by profession.

He started his social career in 1976 by establishing a street school, “Aap Ka Madressah,” where he provided free education to children and adults of the area.

In 1986, he established the Baloch Promotive Computer and English Language Center in his area (Old Golimar). So far, thousands of residents of the area have received IT degrees from the centre.

Apart from education activities, Baloch played a vital role in serving the old settlers of Karachi. Currently, Nisar Baloch was campaigning against the land mafia for grabbing the Tran-Lyari Park (Gutter Baghicha) land in SITE Town. He had launched several protest campaigns in this regard under the banner of the Gutter Baghicha Bachao Tehreek, Shehri-Citizens for a Better Environment and the Karachi NGOs Alliance.

In his struggle to protect land from encroachers, Baloch had faced jail terms on several occasions; numerous cases were registered against him at various police stations, mainly accusing him of inciting violence and damaging public property.

He was married but had no children. His wife is also a schoolteacher by profession. She works at a school in Gwadar, Balochistan. The couple had adopted a child.

Baloch was a resident of Noor Muhammad Village, Hall Road. His funeral will take place after Zuhr prayers on Sunday; his family has planned to bury him at the Mewa Shah graveyard.—WB

Health Minister warns KESC to deliver ‘before it is too late’

Sindh Health Minister Dr Sagheer Ahmed Wednesday said that KESC should immediately improve its power generation capacity to ensure uninterrupted power supply to the citizens.
In a meeting with Chief Operating Officer KESC Jan Abbas Zaidi and other members of management, a delegation of MQM comprising of Dr Sagheer Ahmed, IT Minister Raza Haroon and MPA Khalid Iftikhar urged KESC to improve its performance to facilitate Karachiites.
Dr Sagheer said that it is a general perception among citizens that KESC management was not making efforts to ensure uninterrupted power supply and that it had failed to fulfill its commitment towards power generation, replacement of outdated system and installation of new grid station.
Dr Sagheer, who also head the Governor and Chief Minister’s committee on KESC, further said that due to power outages, the routine of majority of citizens have been disturbed badly. “People are becoming patients of hypertension and other related diseases,” he added.
He mentioned that over and excessive billing is also an issue affecting the people and said that the amount of bill is ever increasing despite low consumption, which is very irritating.
“KESC should deliver before it is too late. Opinion against the company is gathering pace and can amount to a mass protest or rally against KESC,” he warned.
The minister urged federal government to take notice of worsening situation of power supply and that it should realize the consequences of long hours of power outages in country’s economic hub.—APP

Pakistan cricket captains carry Islamic Relief forward

By Syed Khalid Mahmood

As many as four Pakistan cricket captains are proactively involved in supporting the cause of humanity by helping the Islamic Relief (IR) raise substantial funds for the under-privileged and displaced persons in the country.

The quartet of Rashid Latif, Moin Khan, Younis Khan and Shahid Afridi has been instrumental in generating funds for the IR to let them carry out their mission with renewed enthusiasm.

Three of them were in attendance in the IR’s launch of Malakand Rehabilitation Programme held at the Karachi Gymkhana on October 26. Moin Khan was unable to make it because he had to air-dash to Lahore to attend the funeral of Wasim Akram’s wife, Huma, who passed away on October 25.

Fateha was offered for the departed soul before the start of the proceedings and every speaker expressed condolences to Wasim Akram on the untimely death of his wife.

Haris Ahmed Khan, the former Pakistan Customs off-spinner turned qualified coach, has played the pivotal role in roping in the celebrated cricketers to join hands with the IR and take their noble mission forward.

Haris, in his brief speech, recalled that it didn’t take long for him to convince Rashid Latif and Moin Khan who readily agreed to be a part of the fund-raiser in the United Sates (US).

“Then we took Younis Khan and Shahid Afridi to the northern areas of the country devastated by the earthquake in October 2005. They realized the gravity of the situation after reaching there and immediately volunteered their services for the IR,” Haris stated.
Rashid Latif, a former Pakistan captain, shared his experiences at the IR, saying he’s touched after watching the destruction of the various towns by the earthquake.

“It was really very painful to walk on those rocky surfaces where hundreds of people had been buried alive just a few days ago. We took the responsibility of playing our part in helping the people in need,” Rashid remarked.

Pakistan’s Twenty20 captain, Shahid Afridi, announced that he believed in looking at life beyond cricket and it was the reason of him coming on board at the IR.

“When I visited the floods-affected areas of Balochistan I was dismayed at the sufferings of the people who were struggling for basic amenities. Even more depressing was the inaction of the government. Thankfully the IR was there and I made up my mind to contribute my bit in letting them accomplish their cherished goals,” the flamboyant all-rounder asserted.

Pakistan’s captain for Tests and One-day Internationals, Younis Khan, believed that they had to undertake the responsibility of serving the humanity, particularly those who are less fortunate, having been hit by disasters.

“As a human being it’s our duty to care for others. The IR has been doing a great job and I consider a privilege to be a part of their team. It has been hectic at times but we take pride in playing our part by participating in the fund-raisers,” Younis added.

Jalaluddin, a former Test fast bowler, has also been a motivating force in facilitating the Islamic Relief who had commenced operations in Pakistan in 1992 after having secured registration with the Security & Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP) as a company limited by guarantee (Local NGO). It is also registered with the Economic Affairs Division, Ministry of Finance, Government of Pakistan.

Qaim Ali Shah announces PPP Karachi Coordination body

Sindh Chief Minister Syed Qaim Ali Shah on the recommendations of President Asif Ali Zardari has announced the names of members of the PPP Karachi Coordination Committee for the PPP Karachi Division. The members of the body include Prof. N.D.Khan, Taj Haider, Rashid Hussain Rabbani, Lal Bakhsh Bhutto, Syed Najmi Aalam, Saeed Ghani, Afaq Shahid, Haji Muzafar Shujra, Qadir Patel, Rafiq Engineer, Hakim Baloch, Farzana Baloch, Habibuddin Junaidi and Jamshed Ahmed Khan

NETWORK OF ROADS AND FLYOVERS HELPED NATIONAL ECONOMY. GOVERNOR SINDH

Governor of Sindh Dr. Ishrat-ul-Ebad Khan has said that the newly laid network of roads and flyovers by city government Karachi has besides reducing travel duration and making it convenient for citizens also proved helpful to national economy regaining its strength. Plot owners of Landhi Cottage Industrial Zone will now get alternate plots in Orangi Town Cottage Industrial Zone.

He expressed these views while talking to media representatives at Orangi Cottage Industrial Zone on Tuesday. Earlier Governor of Sindh along with City Nazim Syed Mustafa Kamal inaugurated and laid foundation stone for three roads which have a collective cost of Rs.720million. City Government has constructed the road after cutting the hill to provide a new direct route between Orangi and North Nazimabad Town. Governor of Sindh also laid the foundation stone for two roads on which construction work has already been started. He also inspected the development works of Shahra-e-Qaddafi, Orangi Cottage Industrial Zone and Banaras Chowk Flyover during this visit.

Talking to media representatives, Governor Sindh further said that a total 4 thousand persons were allotted with plots in Orangi Cottage Industrial Zone through balloting in 1994 but they were not given possession of their plots due to unavailability of basic infrastructure including water and sewerage facility. City Government has besides carrying out other mega development works in the city also paid full attention on this cottage industrial zone and already 55 percent of infrastructure work has been completed while 3500 plot owners have also started building their factories in this zone.

Governor of Sindh said that cottage industry contributes 35 percent in the growth of any economy, however it was unfortunate that we did not encourage this industry and now I am sure that this industrial zone would begin production within a year.

He said that the owners of plots in this industrial zone are mostly belongs to lower and middle class who can’t afford to invest in big industries but can play vital role in the improvisation of national economy with their talent and products.

Replying a question Governor of Sindh said that with the rapid development process that happened in Karachi during last four years, everyone in Pakistan has this feelings that this process should continue and speed up further.

He said that considering this fact, President of Pakistan Asif Ali Zardari has given clear instructions that better strategy should be employed to carry on this development so that it could fulfill the basic aim of this process.

He said that the country was at large facing the menace of terrorism but the law and order situation in Sindh has been much better and the credit for this should go to Chief Minister Sindh and low enforcement agencies.

Replying another query Governor of Sindh said that the poor financial condition of country has also affected the city government in Karachi but City Nazim Syed Mustafa Kamal deserves all the praise for he did not let the development process to halt due to financial constraints.

He said that the federal and provincial governments have also supported the development process in Karachi.

Governor of Sindh said that it is the quality of a good manger to manage everything in all circumstances and Mustafa Kamal has this ability.

Earlier Governor of Sindh inaugurated the road which has been constructed by city government with an estimated cost of Rs280million. This one and half kilometer long road provides convenience to residents of Orangi and Baldia Town which has been constructed after cutting the hill. Governor Sind and City Nazim also laid the foundation stone of the road from Qalandria Chowk to Sakhi Hasan in North Nazimabad Town and from Qalandria Chowk kto Abdullah College with an estimated cost of Rs130million and Rs310million respectively.

Security put on red alert across Sindh

The security across Sindh especially Karachi has been put on "red-alert" following the terrorist attack on the General Headquarter Rawalpindi (GHQ), while the security agencies have been ordered to remain alert in order to avoid any untoward incident.
The police sources revealed here on Sunday, the law enforcing agencies have prepared the lists for the arrest of the activists of the banned organizations.
Sources said that these organizations include banned Sippah-e-Sahaba-e-Pakistan, Lashkar-e-Jhangvi, Sippah-e-Muhammad, Jash-e-Muhammad, Harak-ul-Jihad-e-Islami, Jindullah Group (Haji Mumtaz alias Hamza Group), Jandullah group (Amjid Farooqi Group), Harakat ul Mujahideen and several others banned organizations.
Sources added that the security agencies have been ordered for the search of the workers of the above mentioned banned organizations in Landhi, Malir, Korangi, Model Colony, Shah Faisal Colony, Sherpao Colony, Future Colony, Millat Colony, Mungho Pir areas of Karachi.
While on the other hand, the security has been put on red alert of all sensitive building and installations including Sindh Assembly, Sindh High Court including Red Zone, Corps Commander Office, Navel and Air Force Office, Sindh Home Department, Central Jail Police Office, Garden Headquarter and Police Training Centre.

International Letter Writing Competition

Foundation for the Drug Free World, USA, is working for the cause of promoting drug awareness programs worldwide. The main motive of this non-profit organization is to organize events throughout the world for creating a healthy society. Eradicating drug abuse from Pakistan from the grass root level and to aware youth about drugs is the purpose of Drug Free World in Pakistan.

Foundation for a Drug Free World recently organized letter writing competition, in which students and individuals from all parts of Pakistan wrote a letter to President Zardari to ban drugs in public buses and at public parks. More than 850 students and individuals, and 560 institutions participated from Karachi, Islamabad, Kharian Cantt, Faisalabad, Rawalpindi, Murree, Lahore, Multan, Sukkur, Gujranwala, and Peshawar.

The citation for the winners was recently held at a local hotel, where the vision of PPP and Shaheed Benazir Bhutto was addressed by Pakistan coordinator, Munir Moosa Sewani. He said,

“Shaheed Benzair Bhutto always wanted to see youth living a happy and peaceful life. By arranging such competitions for the youth, we have joined our hands with Government of Pakistan to eradicate drug abuse and to create healthy environment for the coming generation.” Mr. Munir Moosa later assured the gathering to work closer with the Government of Pakistan in the upcoming years and shared his hope to contribute in formulating drug eradication programs and policies.

The selected letters were sent at Aiwan-e-Sadar to Mr. Zardari by Pakistan Coordinator for Drug Free World, Mr. Munir Moosa Sewani, in the presence of the winners. Later on, Miss Judy, Mr. Tom Pacquitte, Mr. Pascal Cottier, Mr. Munir Moosa Sewani and Miss Salima Moosa Sewani witnessed the declaration of the winners through telephonic conversation.

The names of the winners are: Sanam Shaheen from Garrison Academy, Kharian Cantt, Madiha Salman, Kausar Taighoon Shah from Aga Khan College, Serena Virani from Beacon School System, Kiran Reimoo from Aga Khan Higher Secondary School, Nimira Noorani from Aga Khan University, Institute for Educational Development and Adeel Jawed from BVS Parsi School. Cash prizes and exclusive gift hampers from Sweet Hills Company were distributed along with an International Certificate to the winners and 20 runners up by Pakistan Coordinator Munir Moosa and Regional Director, Ministry of Human Rights, Government of Pakistan, Ali Nawaz Katiar.

Assistant Coordinator, Miss Salima said that the youth being aware of the drastic consequences of drugs still they engage in such activities, which is a point to ponder.

Paramount’s annual book fair 2009

The Paramount’s Annual Book Fair is being held in the metropolis. The organizers said that the event would continue till October 11 from 10 a.m. up to eight p.m. They said that some 65,000 titles are on display and they include books in English and Urdu on a variety of topics and disciplines including those of engineering, medical, computers as well as the general books. A discount of up to 75 percent is also available on the sale of the books, the organizers added.

2 Policemen among 4 killed in Lyari firing

Four people were shot dead including two policemen in firing between police and criminal gangs in Lyari Kalakot area of Karachi on Sunday. Armed men attacked the police with hand grenades and killed four people among two policemen. Police recovered heavy weapons from criminals’ possession. Police also captured large quantity of weapons during raid at a godown in the locality. Police conducted raid at a godown on a tip-off, during which criminals lobbed a hand grenade and opened firing at the police party, leaving two cops dead on the spot.

Firing is still continued between the police and criminals, echoing the area with the sound of heavy firing. Armored carriers and Rangers contingents have reached in the area to assist the police. Police have seized a light machinegun, seven Kalashnikovs, two repeaters, two pistols, a grenade, eight walkie-talkies and hundreds of bullets from the godown. A bus was burnt at Rashid Mihas road by unknown men.

Paradise lost on earth

By Sabina Rizwan Khan

Children are the symbol of hope for the future in any country. They are considered to be the next builder of nation, but unfortunately these innocent beings are at the verge of destruction as the stigma of child labour is deterioting them.

Child labour has emerged as a global phenomenon and found almost in all countries. The child labour problem has been in focus since eighties and caught the world's attention after the adoption of the of the Convention on the Rights of the child by the UN General Assembly in November 1989.

Since then various attempts have been made to control such practices but still a lot is need to be done. According to The International Programme on the Elimination of Child Labour (IPEC) of the International Labour Organisation (ILO), over 100 million boys and girls aged between 5 and 14 work as child laborers.

When we look at Pakistan, the situation seems even worse as ILO quotes:
“In Pakistan 67 % of children are said to be involved in agriculture, 11 %in the carpet sector, 5% in Brick kilns and 9 % in the wholesale and retail, followed by 8 % in community, social and personal services.”
Though the government of Pakistan has been trying to bring changes in the scenario, but no vital signs has been witnessed so far. According to the constitution of Islamic Republic of Pakistan, "No child below the age of fourteen shall be engaged in any factory or mine or in any other hazardous employment".

The constitutional aspect attached to the issue is enough to understand that how significant the matter is. But sadly it is easily being ignored. These young children are found working at street signals, pathan hotels, factories, garages, and often at homes as servants. The most tragic part is that these minors work in harsh conditions and get less amount of return.

According to UN report daily an average child give 10 to 15 hours to labour. Also, there are no safe guards for these children, if they get injured or hurt there are no compensations made. There are many in home factories working privately in Karachi, and if a child gets hard it he or she is forced to come to work the next day, because of which these children often fell ill or even loses their lives. Besides that, these children are also a victim of sexual abuse and drug addiction, which is again a big problem. On an average, in Karachi, a street child does not live up to 15 years of age.

A survey of working children in Karachi showed that they were between the ages of 12-14 years (mean = 13.91 yrs), with average family size of 7.4 members and average family income was Pak Rupees 2,884/month.12 The children had an average income of Pak Rupees 615/month (range: 200-1200). Forty five percent were helpers in shops the rest were employed in other businesses. The reasons given for job included family support (89%), parent's pressure (5%), fond of work (4%), learning skills (1%) and self support (1%). The majority (56%) was working for more than 7 hours per-day and 79% said that they do not like to work. Majority of the children wanted to study, play, be born in another family and become doctors, engineers and officers.12. (Source: Rawal Medical Journal, online)

There are numerous factors that are responsible for triggering child labour in our country:

Unequal Economic opportunities: the exploitation of less privileged people is a major factor. Socio-economically, there is an elite class that has domination on the resources and that makes the other class to suffer, especially the lower class where families are left with no other option than to send their children to work because of financial constraints.

Large families: The growing population is another issue where one bread earner cannot fulfill the requirements of ten eaters, and thus young children of the family are brought into the working scene in order to compensate.

Domestic Violence: Many children yearly runs away from their homes, for really petty issues, but it is the peer pressure especially of the parents that forces the child to take such irrational step.

Deprivation of Educational facilities: Lack of educational amenities also leaves only one option for such under privileged children that are to end up working.

Provision of low wage service: Children are often used for various services because they are a low paid service and they can be easily oppressed and tyrannize.

For girls, Parental discrimination: The biggest dilemma, where un educated parents takes the female children as the curse and often they are targeted for child labour because they are born girls where as the boy member will be regarded and are not forced to work, this practise is common in rural areas of Pakistan.

Malfunctioning of social monitoring institutions: Though there are many implementations of laws and NGO’s working for the preservation of child rights, but still nothing considerable is observed so far.
Considering the above factors that are playing a pivotal role in bringing child labour to existent, one cannot ignore the side effects it is causing:

Child labour deprives a child of his childhood.
He suffers from physical and mental torture.
He becomes mentally and emotionally mature, before his age,
Child labour creates and perpetuates poverty.
It condemns a child to a life of unskilled and unpaid life.
This gives rise to a whole generation of poor children undercutting wages.

Besides that a child misses out all the fun and amusement that any other regular child would enjoy, it is disheartening to realise that when we enjoy a McDonald burger, a child on the streets of Karachi would be looking for food in the trash cans, when any other child would be going to a school, the same age child somewhere would be preparing to leave for work, when a kid would be enjoying his safe home and his toys, somewhere a child would be sleeping on an unsafe deserted street corner waiting to sleep so that he can play in his dreams because that is the only place where he is able to do all those things which is a dream for him in reality!

It is up to us to add colours of reality to their dreams as John Fitzgerald Kennedy said:
“Children are the world's most valuable resource and its best hope for the future of any country."

Istanbul Local Government assures all possible help in Karachi Projects

Governor of Istanbul Muammar Gualer has appreciated the excellent leadership abilities of City Nazim Syed Mustafa Kamal. During a meeting at Governor House in Istanbul he said that he felt much pleasure on meeting with Nazim Karachi. He said that Syed Mustafa Kamal is doing such a wonderful work in Karachi and how he has transformed the city and made it an international phenomenon in a very short time. He said that Nazim Karachi is a young dynamic muslim leader.

Meanwhile the local government of Istanbul has assured all possible help and cooperation in the early completion of Karachi mega projects including Mass Transit System, Solid Waste Management and Sewerage Treatment Plant. Istanbul Local Government Administration has also approved the partnership with City District Government Karachi in these projects.

A representative delegation comprising municipal experts from Istanbul Local Government and City District Government Karachi will soon visit both cities to finalize the working relationship in various projects of Karachi.

The decision in this regard was made during two day visit of City Nazim Syed Mustafa Kamal on the invitation of Mayor of Istanbul Mr. Kadir Topbas.

City Nazim Syed Mustafa Kamal during this visit also attended an international mayor’s conference “Union of Turkish World Municipalities” in Istanbul where representatives from 18 countries of the world participated. Nazim Karachi was given a very high protocol on this occasion and was very well received everywhere he went.
Speaking at the conference, the Mayor of Istanbul told the audience about the great relationship between Turkey and Pakistan. He also said that Turkey was the first country to be present on ground after the earthquake in Pakistan.

Nazim Karachi Syed Mustafa Kamal during this visit besides calling on Governor and Mayor of Istanbul also met with the mayors of seven other cities of Turkey and discussed with them various mega projects of Karachi such as Mass Transit System, BRT, Solid Waste Management System and Sewerage Treatment Plant. Governor and Mayor of Istanbul assured all possible help and cooperation in the early completion of mega projects in Karachi under partnership with CDGK.