Principle Approval for Effective Implementation of Quetta Master Plan and Relocation of Dairy Farms Outside City Limits: Chief Secretary Shakeel Qadir Khan
QUETTA (Daily Qudrat Quetta), September 10: An important meeting chaired by Chief Secretary Balochistan Shakeel Qadir Khan reviewed in detail the effective implementation of the Quetta Master Plan, the relocation of dairy farms established within the city to outside city limits, better use of water resources, implementation of building codes, and the system of medical compensation for government employees. The meeting was attended by the Urban Planning and Development (UP&D) Department, district administration, and other relevant authorities. A briefing to the meeting stated that dairy farms established within city limits are causing various problems, including waste disposal, sanitation and public health, human and animal health, traffic, and environmental pollution. In view of this, principle approval was granted for the phased relocation of dairy farms outside city limits. The meeting also presented preliminary proposals and estimates regarding land availability, logistics, and expected costs for the relocation of dairy farms. The Chief Secretary directed the relevant institutions to prepare a comprehensive and actionable implementation plan for the relocation of dairy farms, including a phased relocation schedule, responsible institutions, necessary facilities, logistics, and a clear implementation timeline. He directed that all stakeholders related to the plan be taken into confidence so that no obstacle arises during implementation.
Regarding the Quetta Master Plan, the Chief Secretary, while appreciating the available data and the planning process, said that a proper balance should be maintained between industrial, agricultural, and residential zoning while ensuring the provision of basic facilities to the urban population. He said that providing Quetta with a clean, safe, organised, and sustainable urban environment is among the government’s top priorities, therefore all relevant institutions should take timely measures under a coordinated strategy for the implementation of the Master Plan.
The Chief Secretary, terming the water shortage in Quetta a major challenge, emphasised water conservation and the effective use of available resources. He appreciated the initiative of constructing recharge wells and making the used water from mosque ablution facilities reusable through a proper procedure for agricultural purposes, and directed that practical measures in this regard be made more effective. He directed ensuring effective and unbiased implementation of building codes and said that no negligence will be tolerated in the implementation of urban planning regulations.
The meeting also reviewed the existing system of medical compensation and reimbursement for government employees. The Chief Secretary gave immediate instructions to review the existing policy afresh, bring it in line with modern requirements, and devise an effective, transparent, and uniform system for the payment of medical expenses. He made it clear that regular and clear rules and regulations should be formulated for reimbursement, and any kind of discrimination on the basis of likes and dislikes will be unacceptable. He said that along with the welfare of government employees, the needs of the poor and deserving people must also be kept in mind.
The Chief Secretary also directed the relevant authorities to expedite the implementation of health cards for government employees, establish a coordinated digital mechanism, and ensure effective communication and coordination among all relevant departments. He made it clear that unnecessary delay in reform measures will not be tolerated, and relevant institutions should ensure progress in accordance with the set targets.
