Sajid Hussain Turi, the Federal Minister for Overseas Pakistanis and HRD, visited the Gaddani shipbreaking yard and had a detailed meeting with various stakeholders, including Jan Sher Bazenjo, Chairman Municipal Corporation Gaddani, Zulfiqar Ahmad Secretary Workers Welfare Fund, Tariq Qamar, Secretary Labor Balochistan, Wali Kakar, Chairman Balochistan Development Authority, Capt (Rtd) Javed Director BDA, Rizwan Dewan, Chairman Shipbreaker Association and representatives of workers and different organizations. This visit was a continuation of his engagements in Geneva during ILC regarding Occupational Safety and Health and Decent Work Program for shipbreaking and mine workers. During the meeting, Sajid Hussain Turi assured that the government of Pakistan will ratify the Hong Kong Convention and address Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) and other related problems in the shipbreaking industry. The safety and health of shipbreaking workers are a top priority for the government, and they are taking measures to provide facilities in line with international standards and ILO conventions. He said that Bilwal Bhutto Zardari and other leadership of PPP, PM Pakistan prioritize health and safety of workers. All stakeholders actively participated in the discussion. Various issues and challenges faced by the shipbreaking industry were discussed, and Chairman BDA informed that the Hong Kong Convention is awaiting approval in the cabinet. Sajid Hussain Turi pledged efforts to facilitate its approval. Furthermore, Sajid Hussain Turi proposed the establishment of a school (for boys and girls), a basic health unit, and a residential colony for the workers in the area. The Secretary of Labor Balochistan informed that the land is available for these projects, and they will be submitted for approval after a feasibility study. To address the problems faced by the shipbreaking industry, a one-window office is under construction. Additionally, Balochistan has forwarded projects for a labor colony, school, and drinking water to CDWP. Sajid Hussain Turi assured full support of M/O OP&HRD and Federal Government in completion of these projects. He resolved that implementation of Hong King Convention in the shipbreaking industry and its benefits shall be ensured. Sajid Hussain Turi expressed displeasure over the issue of 8000 shipbreaking workers being jobless due to the non-ratification of the Hong Kong Convention, leading to a decline in ships coming to the yard. He directed all concerned to address this issue promptly and assured that all efforts will be made to resolve the problems of the shipbreaking industry. He also directed to ensure environmental protection measures in the industry according to international conventions. The stakeholders appreciated his commitment and support.
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