The Senate Standing Committee on Interior met in Islamabad under the chairmanship of Shahadat Ali Awan, where a bill related to the Metro Bus service was presented for consideration. During the meeting, officials of the Capital Development Authority (CDA) informed the committee that they had earlier recommended the establishment of a dedicated wing to handle matters related to the Metro Bus project.
CDA officials stated that guidance from the Ministry of Law was required on the proposed framework. Sarmad Ali clarified that a separate authority would not be created; instead, a new wing would be set up within the CDA structure to manage Metro Bus affairs. Representatives of the Law Ministry said they had no objection if the institution itself managed the service.
Senator Sarmad Ali asked for details of the amendments made to the bill, emphasizing that the committee should be informed about all changes. Law Ministry officials responded that no amendments had been shared with them so far. Officials from the Interior Ministry also stated that relevant details should be shared so they could provide their input. The Law Ministry added that time would be required to examine and work on the matter.
Chairman Shahadat Ali Awan expressed dissatisfaction, noting that direct questions were not being addressed. Talha Mahmood remarked that in his 20 years of serving on committees, the mover of a bill has the right to speak. Senator Sarmad Ali said those attempting to discuss the bill were being asked to remain silent, prompting the chairman to urge members to avoid becoming emotional.
The committee decided to take up the bill again in its next meeting. The chairman also stated that the CDA chairman would brief the committee on Islamabad’s Master Plan. Saifullah Abro criticized the absence of the CDA chairman in committee proceedings and called for him to be summoned to explain what was happening within the institution, stating that the focus had remained limited to the Metro Bus bill.