ISLAMABAD: The government is said to be setting up 'Pakistan Islands Development Authority (PIDA)' aimed at developing barren islands in the territorial waters of the country, well-informed sources in Ministry of Maritime Affairs told Business Recorder.
The Ministry recently revealed that it proposes to introduce "The Pakistan Islands Development Authority Act, 2020," through which the "Pakistan Islands Development Authority" will be established for the development of barren islands in the territorial waters of the country, and to undertake residential/infrastructure projects in these islands, which would contribute towards revival of fifty plus allied industries thereby generating large scale skilled employment opportunities.
These islands are facing erosion due to forces of nature besides their development is capital intensive requiring reclamation of land, establishing of road linkages, water recycling & sewerage treatment plants and utilities etc. Investors would commit only if a predictable safe, secure business environment and fiscal regime are in place. Once the projects are initiated, it is likely that the same would be replicated thereby bringing about the much awaited coastal development of Karachi city. The meeting was informed that consultations were made with Law& Justice and Revenue Divisions. The final draft incorporating amendments proposed by Law and Justice Division includes certain amendments proposed by Maritime Affairs Division.
The CCLC was briefed that as of today, the Buddo and Bundle Islands are in the domain of Port Qasim Authority and are parked under the Ministry of Maritime Affairs. Subsequently, these islands will be vested in the "Pakistan Islands Development Authority". Presently, there is no sale, purchase or auction in relation to the said Buddo and Bundle Islands and as and when there is any step taken all codal formalities are to be complied with by the new authority and the concerned Division under which the new Authority is placed.
It was further stated that the Federal Cabinet has accorded, in principle, approval of the fresh legislative proposal. In view of this, Ministry of Maritime Affairs has proposed that draft Bill titled "The Pakistan Islands Development Authority Act, 2020" may be approved before forwarding it to Law and Justice Division for introduction of the draft bill in the Parliament in terms of Rule 27(5)(a) read with Rule 27(8) of Rules of Business, 1973.
Copyright Business Recorder, 2020
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