Chief Secretary Shah Sets Deadline for Labour Flats Encroachment Removal

The issue of encroachments on labour flats has become a pressing concern in Sindh, particularly in urban areas where the demand for housing is high. The Chief Secretary of Sindh, Syed Asif Hyder Shah, recently convened a significant meeting to address these challenges faced by the Labour and Human Resources Department. This meeting highlighted the urgent need for action to ensure that workers receive their rightful benefits and protections.

During the meeting, Chief Secretary Shah emphasized the importance of registering workers, especially those who work from home. He directed the Secretary of Labour to launch a province-wide registration campaign aimed at bringing more workers into the fold. This initiative is crucial as many factories have been reluctant to register, leaving workers without access to essential benefits. The Chief Secretary's commitment to empowering workers through proper registration is a step towards improving their living conditions and safeguarding their rights.

In addition to the registration campaign, the Chief Secretary announced an awareness initiative to educate workers about the registration process and the benefits they can avail themselves of. This is a vital move, as many workers may not be aware of their rights or the support available to them. By informing them, the government aims to create a more informed workforce that can advocate for its own needs.

Another critical issue discussed was the encroachment on housing facilities meant for workers. The Secretary of Labour reported that there are currently 100 quarters in Shaheed Benazirabad and 128 flats in Hyderabad that are unlawfully occupied. In response, Chief Secretary Shah set a strict two-month deadline for the Secretary of Labour to collaborate with the district administration to ensure these properties are vacated. The goal is to allocate these flats and quarters to deserving workers who need them the most.

Furthermore, the Chief Secretary assured that he would raise the concerns of the Labour Department with the Federal government and Karachi Electric (KE) to address the ongoing issues related to electricity provision for the labour colony in Karachi. This is an essential aspect of ensuring that workers have access to basic utilities, which is fundamental for their quality of life.

The actions taken by Chief Secretary Syed Asif Hyder Shah reflect a commitment to improving the lives of workers in Sindh. By addressing encroachments and promoting worker registration, the government is taking significant steps towards ensuring that workers receive the benefits and protections they deserve. It is crucial for the government to continue these efforts and for workers to stay informed and engaged in advocating for their rights. Only through collective action can we hope to create a fair and just environment for all workers in the province.