The National Assembly Standing Committee on Government Assurances has raised alarms over the rising use of narcotics in educational institutions and called for urgent policies to address the issue. The committee also touched on several other key matters, including property encroachment in District Nankana Sahib, delays in highway construction in Sindh, electricity supply issues in Karachi, and gas shortages in various neighborhoods of the city.
Chaired by Ms. Nuzhat Sadiq, the committee directed the Ministry of Federal Education and the Higher Education Commission (HEC) to develop comprehensive policies to curb drug use on campuses. The HEC was specifically urged to adopt a zero-tolerance stance and hold institutional heads accountable when drug use is reported. Committee members emphasized the moral responsibility to protect youth from narcotics. Officials revealed that the Anti Narcotics Force has confiscated significant quantities of drugs, including 189 kilograms seized near educational areas in Islamabad, with similar operations underway elsewhere in the country. Beyond enforcement, awareness sessions for students about the dangers of drug consumption are also being implemented.
On the topic of illegal occupation of Evacuee Trust property in District Nankana Sahib, the committee demanded provincial authorities step up support for evicting encroachers, criticizing the lack of cooperation from district administration. Committee members asserted stronger local government backing could have prevented widespread unauthorized occupation. Evacuee Trust Property Board officials detailed the encroachments and actions taken so far.
Addressing infrastructure concerns, the committee discussed the National Highway Authority’s performance in maintaining and rehabilitating highways in Sindh. The chairman of the NHA has been called to the next session to address reported failures and to explain policies on toll plazas, particularly those set up at short intervals, which committee members said impose excessive financial burdens on commuters. Detailed figures have been requested on toll collections and expenditures for highway repairs and reconstruction in Sindh.
Persistent electricity outages and billing complaints in Karachi also came under review. Members voiced frustration that overbilling and unannounced load-shedding by Karachi Electric remain rampant despite past assurances. NEPRA and the Power Minister are expected to provide detailed briefings soon. The committee suggested introducing a competing electricity supplier for Karachi to improve service and promote consumer welfare.
Concerning natural gas shortages in Karachi’s Malir, Kemari, and Lyari neighborhoods, the Sui Southern Gas Company was instructed to fulfill its commitment to upgrade pipelines and improve gas supply. Company representatives assured committee members that rehabilitation work would be completed by October, aiming to stabilize service for affected residents.
Ministers, members of the National Assembly, secretaries of relevant ministries, and senior departmental officials attended the meeting, which addressed a broad range of governance and public service issues facing various regions.
