Sindh Small Industries Corporation (SSIC) will undertake three major development projects at Thar shortly.
The initiative is being taken in line with the directions given to the Corporation by Sindh Industries and Commerce minister Muhammad Adil Siddiqui.
According to sources, the Corporation has already started working on these development projects, which include establishment of an industrial estate and artisan colony at Mitthi, and residential scheme for artisans.
The main objective of these development schemes is to organise the scattered cottage industries with the provision of all assistance for development of the local population.
The schemes are part of Thar Package, which has the main emphasis on promotion of small and cottage industries all over the province to tap the resources and to generate employment opportunities.
According to the details of these development packages, at the initial stage a small industrial estate will be set up at Mithi on an area of 50 acres of land.
The SSIC will develop 316 plots for potential investors under this scheme. An allocation of Rs 1 million has already been approved by the government for the current year.
This project will be completed within two years at a total estimated cost of Rs 23.53 million.
The two other schemes proposed by the SSIC under the Thar Package include establishment of Artisan Colony at Mithi, consisting of 100 workshops on cultural handicrafts of Thar, especially carpets, needle -work, handloom etc This project will cost about Rs 41.37 million.
Besides these projects, a residential scheme for artisans is also planned under which 100 quarters will be built, especially for female artisans who work at home. This scheme also includes construction of display centre, convention centre, market shops, schools and basic healthcare units.