The National Assembly’s Standing Committee on Government Assurances has called for urgent measures to tackle key issues ranging from narcotics use in educational institutions to property encroachment, delayed infrastructure, and energy supply problems across the country.
Expressing deep concern over reports of drug use in educational settings, the committee instructed the Ministry of Federal Education and the Higher Education Commission (HEC) to develop a comprehensive policy to combat this problem. The HEC was urged to enforce a zero-tolerance approach and hold the heads of institutions accountable where such incidents are reported. Officials shared that the Anti Narcotics Force had already seized significant amounts of drugs near educational institutions, including 189 kilograms around Islamabad’s campuses, while advocacy and awareness sessions are also being held to educate students about the risks.
The committee also addressed the issue of illegal occupation of government property in District Nankana Sahib, directing a strict no-tolerance policy against encroachments on Evacuee Trust land. Members criticized the lack of support from district authorities in removing illegal occupants and stressed that better cooperation could have prevented large-scale encroachment. The Secretary of the Evacuee Trust Property Board outlined recent actions taken against those involved.
Concerns over the performance of the National Highways Authority in Sindh were discussed, particularly delays in highway construction and rehabilitation. The committee planned to summon the Chairman of the National Highways Authority to the next meeting to review policies, especially the placement of toll plazas, and requested detailed financial information on tolls collected and funds spent on Sindh’s highways.
Persistent problems with electricity supply in Karachi, including unannounced load-shedding, overbilling by the Karachi Electric Supply Company, and ongoing power theft, were also highlighted. Despite promises from company management, the issues persist. The committee called for a comprehensive briefing with the Minister of Power and the National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA), and suggested that introducing another electricity provider could boost competition and improve service for consumers.
Addressing concerns about gas shortages in Karachi’s Malir, Kemari, and Lyari areas, the committee directed Sui Southern Gas Company to expedite rehabilitation of its distribution network, as previously promised. Company representatives assured the committee that upgrades would be completed by October, improving supply to residents.
The meeting was attended by parliamentarians and senior officials from relevant ministries and departments, demonstrating a joint commitment to addressing a range of issues affecting citizens nationwide.
