FAISALABAD: Punjab Governor Sardar Saleem Haider Khan has declared Faisalabad Pakistan’s first circular city. He said the initiative aims to support economic growth and put the country on a path toward development.
The governor made the announcement while addressing a meeting at the Faisalabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry (FCCI). He praised the business community for its efforts to stabilise the economy despite several challenges.
He highlighted the importance of cooperation between industries and educational institutions. According to him, stronger coordination could help address business problems and support economic development.
Governor Calls for Stronger Industry-Academia Links
Sardar Saleem Haider Khan said he would ask university vice chancellors to visit their respective chambers of commerce. These visits would help them understand the challenges faced by local businesses.
He also proposed forming university committees and appointing focal persons. These representatives would maintain regular contact with the business community and help resolve its concerns.
Additionally, a focal person from the Governor’s Secretariat would be nominated for this purpose. The arrangement aims to address business issues without unnecessary bureaucratic delays.
The governor said stronger cooperation between universities and industries could improve research, innovation, and business opportunities. Such efforts could also help Faisalabad strengthen its position as an important industrial centre.
Governor Highlights Economic Challenges
During the meeting, the governor discussed several challenges affecting Pakistan’s economy. These included high electricity costs, expensive energy, rising interest rates, and heavy taxation.
He expressed concern about the tax burden on salaried employees and registered businesses. He said authorities should focus on expanding the tax base rather than placing additional pressure on existing taxpayers.
The governor also pledged to facilitate a meeting between FCCI representatives, President Asif Ali Zardari, and Pakistan Peoples Party Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari.
He said he would make efforts to arrange the meeting. He would also request Bilawal Bhutto Zardari to visit FCCI and interact directly with business representatives.
Faisalabad Seeks Textile Recycling and IT Development
Earlier, FCCI President Arif Ehsan Malik welcomed the governor and requested recognition for Faisalabad as Pakistan’s first textile circular city.
He explained that textile waste was already being recycled to manufacture new products. He proposed a joint pilot project in a selected industrial cluster to treat industrial wastewater for reuse.
The initiative could help industries manage waste more effectively and support resource conservation. It would also encourage businesses to adopt more sustainable production practices.
Malik also called for establishing an information technology university campus in the City. He said this would help promote IT education and develop the sector through a more organised approach.
Governor Promises Action on Businessman’s Murder
The governor also addressed the murder of a local businessman. He said he would raise the matter at the highest level and direct authorities to arrest those responsible within hours.
His remarks highlighted concerns about business security alongside broader economic challenges.
In other news read more about Suthra Punjab Announces 524 Sanitary Worker Jobs In Faisalabad
The declaration of Faisalabad as Pakistan’s first circular city could strengthen discussions about industrial recycling and sustainable development. Cooperation between government officials, universities, and businesses will remain important to achieving these goals.
