KARACHI: Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi on Monday assured the business community in Karachi that the government is working to resolve their issues, including law and order, crime, water shortages, smuggling, narcotics, and encroachments.
Speaking at the Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI), Naqvi said the government is considering all proposals to address traders’ concerns. The minister was received by KCCI office bearers and business leaders, who briefed him on current challenges.
Naqvi said the government aims to improve the global ranking of the Pakistani passport. He also praised the Sindh and Karachi police, saying the law and order situation has improved, and crime has decreased.
He added that Karachi’s stability is essential for Pakistan’s overall health.
On water shortages, Naqvi said large cities face similar challenges and cited Islamabad, where only 33% of the population receives water supply. He called for collective efforts to find solutions.
Naqvi said progress has been made against smuggling, including a reduction in currency smuggling. He acknowledged that smuggling is not fully eliminated but said it has decreased. He pointed out that the Pakistan Coast Guards have limited resources and only six operational boats to monitor a 1,002-kilometer coastline.
The government plans to provide more boats and strengthen border forces.
The minister said the Safe City Project is a key initiative to reduce crime and noted that Faisalabad has seen positive results. He expressed hope for similar results in Karachi.
He said the government will work with NADRA to improve ID and SIM card verification systems to help businesses check criminal backgrounds of job applicants.
On drug issues, Naqvi said law enforcement alone is not enough and called for joint efforts involving the business community and the Anti-Narcotics Force. He stressed the need for rehabilitation centers before taking action against drug users.
On encroachments, Naqvi said strong legislation and penalties are needed. Without proper laws, he said, the issue cannot be resolved.
