Authority directed fast track developments on Gwadar Smart City Master Plan

QUETTA: The Gwadar Development Authority’s governing body has approved rates of fee and taxes to be imposed on different sectors in the port city with some amendments.

A meeting presided over by Balochistan Chief Minister Jam Kamal Khan Alyani, who is also chairman of GDA’s Board of Governors, also reviewed progress on town planning and regulations regarding the construction sector under the Gwadar Smart City Master Plan.

GDA Director General Shahzeb Kakar briefed the governing body on proposed rules and regulations and other issues relating to the fee and tax collection.

The chief minister direc­ted the GDA to consider Gwadar as an international port city from the beginning of construction and ensure environmental protection and energy resources while constructing high-rise buildings in the city.

The meeting ordered the GDA to publish notices in newspapers regarding new housing societies to inform general public about its rules and regulations.

It also directed the autho­rities to start one-window operation regarding licensing and registration of private construction firms. The construction firms were asked to publish rules and regulations on GDA website.

The GDA director general informed the meeting that the government had allocated land for industrial areas, residential schemes, public entertainment and buildings of private investment companies.

The chief minister said all development projects in Gwadar should be based on public-private partnership. “Partnership with private firms will enhance GDA’s resources,” he added.