ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s Industries and Production Minister Rana Tanveer Hussain on Tuesday informed the National Assembly that there are no plans to shut down Utility Stores.
Responding to a Calling Attention Notice, he assured that any restructuring of the Utility Stores Corporation (USC) would involve consultations with all stakeholders, including employee representatives.
Rana Tanveer emphasized the importance of USC as a key provider of essential services and stated that efforts are underway to enhance its operations. He pointed out that regulations governing state-owned enterprises prohibit the privatization or closure of essential institutions.
The minister reiterated that the USC, established by Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto to aid the public, remains a priority.
He noted that, in addition to the Benazir Income Support Program (BISP), which has a budget nearing Rs 600 billion, the government has approved a Rs 60 billion subsidy for Utility Stores to ensure the availability of affordable and quality goods.
Rana Tanveer also highlighted that Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif is committed to maximizing public relief and is working on improving Utility Stores and other public sector institutions.
Regarding the Public Works Department (PWD), the minister announced that the government has decided to close down the PWD and transfer its repair functions to the Capital Development Authority (CDA).
He assured that Grade-4 employees of PWD would be reassigned to other ministries and departments, while other employees would be offered various options to secure their futures. An authority will be established to oversee PWD operations and safeguard employee interests.
He also mentioned that funding for PWD projects would now be allocated to the provinces. Rana Tanveer affirmed that both PPP and PML-N governments have historically focused on improving education and healthcare for workers, and this administration remains dedicated to protecting employees’ rights through legislative measures.
