Karachi: The Provincial Assembly of Sindh on Tuesday approved several private members’ resolutions during Private Members’ Day, including a key proposal calling on the government to promote local industries manufacturing solar panels and modern energy storage batteries.
The session, chaired by Speaker Syed Awais Qadir Shah, witnessed detailed debate on electricity outages, gas load-shedding, education concerns, workplace harassment, and environmental issues. Several motions were approved, while others were withdrawn after ministerial assurances.
A resolution moved by Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) lawmaker Sajjad Soomro urging the government to support industries producing solar panels and advanced battery storage systems, along with legislation for the safe disposal of used batteries, was unanimously adopted by the House.
The government expressed support for the proposal, terming it aligned with broader energy transition and industrial development goals.
Other resolutions also highlighted pressing public concerns. A Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) member, Asif Musa, called for an end to unannounced gas load-shedding in Karachi, particularly in Baldia Town, noting its impact on daily life and students. The matter was referred to a parliamentary committee, which will summon officials of the relevant gas utility.
A resolution submitted by Muttahida Qaumi Movement-Pakistan (MQM-P) member Quratulain regarding the establishment of anti-harassment committees in institutions was withdrawn after the government assured that existing laws and the provincial ombudsman mechanism are already in place to address such complaints.
Another MQM-P resolution regarding alleged non-supply of textbooks to Karachi Metropolitan Corporation (KMC) schools was also withdrawn after the education minister clarified that the provincial government continues to provide textbooks despite jurisdictional constraints.
The House also supported a resolution seeking greater representation of women in standing committees, including the energy committee, which was unanimously passed.
Other motions, including proposals on school summer vacation scheduling and seafarers held abroad, were either withdrawn or referred to the relevant federal authorities.
