MITHI: Chairman of the Pakistan Peoples Party, Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, inaugurated the expansion of the Thar Coal Project and unveiled Pakistan's first coal-drying unit. He emphasized the development as a testament to the benefits of the 18th Constitutional Amendment, provincial autonomy, and public-private partnerships, and urged Islamabad to replicate Thar's development model nationally.
According to a press release by Media Cell Bilawal House, Bhutto Zardari highlighted the significant transformation in Tharparkar, noting its progress in infrastructure, health, and education. He stated that Tharparkar's power generation capacity has increased significantly, supplying nearly 14 percent of the national grid's electricity. Bhutto Zardari also mentioned the economic savings achieved through Thar coal and the potential for further industrial applications.
He praised Tharparkar's educational achievements, pointing out the success of students from the region in national and international examinations. Bhutto Zardari criticized divisive politics in Karachi and reiterated his commitment to promoting unity and development in Sindh.
Discussing employment generated by the project, he noted that a significant portion of the workforce is sourced locally. He advocated for the national implementation of the public-private partnership model, citing its success in Tharparkar.
In his address, Bhutto Zardari encouraged investment in Sindh's development projects, highlighting plans for a Karachi waterfront and a Sindh Investment Zone. He also mentioned ongoing agricultural innovations in Thar, utilizing saline water for crop cultivation.
The ceremony, attended by various government officials and local representatives, marked a milestone in Thar's development journey. Bhutto Zardari expressed gratitude to the people of Thar, acknowledging their contribution to the region's progress.