Punjab Chief Minister, Mian Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif has said that ill planning of various projects during last eight years has resulted in loss of huge public money. Presiding over a high level meeting he said that construction of Software Technology Park in congested area like Ferozpur Road is a proof of this fact as such projects are set up on vast areas outside cities all over the world.
He directed formation of two special committees to settle matters with the Chinese company, which constructed software house as well as to consider proposals for the use of the existing building. Chairman Planning and Development, Inspector General Police Punjab, Secretary Information Technology, Secretary Finance, MD Nespak, Professor Dr, Javed as well as senior officers of concerned departments were present.
The Chief Minister said that the software house involving a sum of billions of rupees was planned at an extremely busy road without keeping in view the rush of traffic or the problems of the people. He said that parking space was also very limited in the project. He said that in view of the implementation of this project by a Chinese construction company and huge expenditure incurred so far it has been decided to complete this project.
He directed Chairman Planning and Development and Secretary Information Technology to settle all issues with the Chinese firm through negotiations. He also directed Dr Javed and other experts to conduct a survey of the under-construction software house and submit recommendations for the proper use of the building.
He directed Chairman P&D to appoint three or four more private companies for third-party audit for ensuring transparency in development projects and also consider extending loans for this purpose so that an atmosphere of competition could be promoted in the province as well as the burden of work on Nespak could also be reduced.
He said that a complete package be evolved in this regard. Earlier, Secretary Information Technology while giving a detailed briefing about software house informed that about 28 percent work had been complete on the 17 storey tower.
The Chief Minister directed authorities concerned to hold negotiations with the Chinese company to resume work as well as ensure its early completion. He said that Punjab government is adopting a comprehensive strategy for the promotion of information technology and setting up of an IT Park over a vast piece of land near Lahore with the assistance of China is being considered.