ISLAMABAD: The Senate Committee on Housing and Works has called for swift resolution of issues faced by Pak PWD employees, reaffirming its commitment to ensuring fair and just settlements of all outstanding matters.
A meeting of the committee chaired by Senator Nasir Mehmood reviewed compliance regarding the absorption and salary payments of employees from the erstwhile Pak PWD, along with key concerns related to public infrastructure, housing schemes and encroachments.
Addressing the absorption and salary payments of dissolved Pak PWD employees, the committee reiterated its commitment to resolving all pending issues justly. The chairman emphasised that protecting employees’ rights remains a top priority.
The secretary of housing informed the committee that out of 3,227 employees, 3,001 have been absorbed in various departments and are receiving salaries, 193 have been adjusted with payments to be released shortly, and only 33 employees remain unaccommodated. Following the committee’s directions, the Ministry of Planning assured absorption of 17 employees within 10 days, while the Ministry of Interior committed to adjusting seven employees soon. However, the Ministry of Religious Affairs expressed reservations due to limited vacancies in the Haj Directorate, Karachi.
The committee expressed displeasure over this stance and directed the ministry to absorb all the remaining employees and submit a compliance report within 10 days, emphasizing that cabinet decisions are binding on all departments. The committee also addressed concerns raised by employees absorbed in the CDA, instructing the authority to resolve their issues and present a detailed report at the next meeting. Additionally, five employees assigned to Border Health Services have yet to join, and the committee recommended issuing notices to ensure compliance.
The committee received updates on the Model Jail in Islamabad, expected to become operational by the end of the current financial year.
The chairman indicated that a site visit would be undertaken before the next meeting. Regarding Constantia Lodge at Kashmir Point, Murree, the committee was informed that 38 kanals have been identified and fenced, though 6-7 kanals remain encroached and are under litigation. The committee urged expediting legal proceedings to secure possession.
