KDA retirees’ dues to be cleared following ministerial directive

2026-03-07 - 00:13

ZUBAIR YAQOOB The Sindh government is moving swiftly to address long-standing financial obligations to retired employees of the Karachi Development Authority (KDA), following a directive by Sindh Minister for Local Government, Housing, and Town Planning, Syed Nasir Hussain Shah. The minister chaired the 1199th Governing Body meeting of KDA at the Civic Centre, attended by senior officials including Additional Secretary Local Government Dr. Shamshad and Director General KDA Asif Jan Siddiqui. The session focused on administrative, financial, and developmental matters, with particular emphasis on the timely settlement of dues to retired staff. DG KDA Siddiqui highlighted that clearing the payments for retired employees was among the institution’s highest priorities. In response, Minister Shah emphasized that salaries and pensions are fundamental rights and instructed that these be disbursed on a priority basis. He suggested that funds for immediate payments could be arranged through a loan from the Sindh government, to be repaid later by KDA. “Any delay in the payment of employees’ dues is equivalent to denying them their rights,” the minister stressed. The meeting also addressed financial obligations of other institutions toward KDA. Siddiqui noted that the Sindh Building Control Authority (SBCA) owed dues to KDA. Minister Shah directed the formation of a committee to review these liabilities and submit actionable recommendations. Another key issue on the agenda was the management of KDA lands. The minister instructed officials to first remove encroachments before auctioning plots. He also mandated third-party valuation of land to ensure optimal market prices. “Encroachments in development areas must be cleared, and practical steps should be taken to reclaim all KDA lands,” Shah said, urging acceleration of development work in Surjani Town. Employee welfare was another significant focus. Abdul Maroof, President of the KDA Employees Union (CBA), presented a Charter of Demand, which was approved by the minister. The meeting also discussed promotions for employees from Grade 1 to 15, with the minister assuring positive consideration. In terms of administrative modernization, DG KDA outlined plans to digitize the institution’s land records, aiming to streamline operations and reduce bureaucratic delays. The minister also emphasized addressing public complaints promptly and holding responsible officers accountable. Additional resolutions included the auction of scrap at the Pie Factory and preparation of a comprehensive estimate for retired employees’ dues and pensions, ensuring a permanent solution to the issue. The Governing Body also approved the upgradation of the Director Legal post to strengthen KDA’s legal framework. Officials present at the meeting included Member Administration and Senior Director Land Shakeel Siddiqui, Member Finance Nisar Ahmed Khan, Secretary KDA Arshad Khan, and other senior directors and budget officers.