Latest news with #SindhPeople'sHousingforFloodAffectees
Business Recorder
10 hours ago
- Business
- Business Recorder
Commissioners, DCs directed to ensure ex-mill price of sugar
KARACHI: Chief Secretary Sindh, Asif Hyder Shah has issued strict instructions to all Commissioners and Deputy Commissioners to ensure that the ex-mill price of sugar remains capped at Rs 165 per kilogram. Chairing a meeting to review key issues related to sugar and wheat prices, distribution of Sanads to flood-affected families under the Sindh People's Housing for Flood Affectees (SPHF) program, and monsoon preparedness, he further directed that retail prices must not exceed an additional Rs. 8 above the ex-mill price, meaning the maximum retail price should be Rs. 173 per kilogram. He emphasized that any violation of this pricing structure must be dealt with strictly. If retailers are found charging beyond the fixed price, immediate action must be taken against them. Moreover, if any sugar mill is found selling sugar above the notified ex-mill rate, its data will be compiled and shared with the Prime Minister's Office for further action. The meeting also received a detailed briefing on the current ex-mill and retail prices of sugar across various districts of the province. The meeting was attended in person by the Secretary Agriculture, Secretary Food, Secretary Implementation & Coordination (I&C), and Secretary Land Utilization. All Commissioners and Deputy Commissioners across Sindh participated in the meeting via video link. Regarding wheat stock management, the Chief Secretary instructed all Commissioners to conduct a thorough survey of wheat godowns managed by the Sindh Food Department. The survey must focus on the quality and condition of stored wheat. The Commissioners have been directed to submit their inspection reports within three days. Distribution of Sanads to Flood Affectees The Chief Secretary also reviewed the status of Sanads (ownership documents) prepared for distribution among the flood-affected populations under the Sindh People's Housing for Flood Affectees (SPHF) initiative. He directed all Deputy Commissioners to submit updated records of prepared Sanads without delay. Additionally, the CEO of SPHF was instructed to reconcile Sanad data with the respective DCs to ensure transparency and accuracy in the distribution process. Monsoon Preparedness Highlighting the upcoming monsoon season, Chief Secretary Asif Hyder Shah instructed all Deputy Commissioners to remain fully prepared for any eventualities. He assured that funds will be released to each district administration to support necessary preparations and emergency response mechanisms ahead of the monsoon rains. The Chief Secretary concluded the meeting by emphasizing coordinated efforts, timely action, and transparent governance at all administrative levels to ensure public welfare and effective service delivery across Sindh. Copyright Business Recorder, 2025
Business Recorder
5 days ago
- Business
- Business Recorder
SPHF makes remarkable progress since launch
ISLAMABAD: Since its launch in February 2023, the Sindh People's Housing for Flood Affectees (SPHF) has made remarkable progress, with over 1,250,000 bank accounts opened for female beneficiaries — a significant step towards empowering women in flood-affected regions. The initiative also boasts over 1,150,000 houses under construction and 500,000 homes already completed, providing much-needed shelter to communities devastated by recent floods. This transformative project, spearheaded by the provincial Government of Sindh, is backed by a substantial $2 billion in funding. The World Bank leads the contributions with $950 million, including an initial $500 million and an additional $450 million. Further support comes from the Asian Development Bank (ADB) with $400 million, the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) with $200 million, and $227 million from the Government of Sindh, complemented by other crucial financing This ambitious undertaking was launched in response to the devastating 2022 floods, which left millions displaced and critical infrastructure in ruins. The initiative is now building 2.1 million multi-hazard-resistant homes and developing climate-resilient settlements, aiming to protect communities from future climate disasters. This project will directly benefit over 15 million people, a population larger than that of 154 countries, highlighting its immense scale and impact. Initially focusing on housing, SPHF has now expanded to Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH)—a critical area for building resilience in these communities. In the first phase of the WASH initiative, 3,700 villages and 314,000 households are being provided access to WASH facilities, ensuring that 1.5 million people gain access to clean water and proper sanitation. Digital maps of each village are being created using advanced drone technology and on-the-ground surveys. This will allow SPHF to identify existing infrastructure, assess needs, and plan for sustainable development. The pilot project has been launched in six districts of Sindh, to replicate it across 60,000 settlements in the province. Under the programme, approximately 800,000 women beneficiaries are being granted financial access, fostering economic independence and social inclusion. In a landmark move, all land titles under the programme are being issued in the name of women—ensuring long-term security, ownership, and a shift towards more equitable recovery. The SPHF leveraged public-private partnerships to collaborate with leading implementing partners, cutting-edge technology firms, and experts in environmental and social safeguards. As per the ILO impact assessment report, the initiative is projected to create one million jobs in the next two years, further contributing to the region's economic recovery and growth. Copyright Business Recorder, 2025
