Sindh to Receive Modern Firefighting and Rescue Equipment

Sindh is set to receive modern firefighting equipment and upgraded emergency services under a proposed collaboration with China.

The development was discussed during a high-level meeting chaired by Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah, where officials reviewed key areas of cooperation. A major proposal focused on the modernization of fire and emergency services across the province.

The initiative includes the provision of new fire engines, improved emergency response systems, and the construction of additional fire stations in partnership with Chinese companies.

Authorities informed the meeting that consultations on the firefighting initiative have been completed, and a government-to-government arrangement is currently in process. The chief minister directed the Local Government Department to expedite formalities and ensure early finalization of the agreement.

Alongside firefighting upgrades, the meeting reviewed other projects under Pakistan-China cooperation. These included a coal gasification project in Thar for fertilizer production, aimed at converting local coal into ammonia and urea and reducing reliance on imports. Feasibility studies for this project are expected to be completed by May 2026.

In the agriculture and livestock sector, plans were discussed to introduce modern livestock traceability systems, vaccination programs, and disease diagnostic facilities. The initiative also includes technology transfer, the establishment of diagnostic laboratories, and the creation of a livestock registration authority.

Environmental proposals, including sewage treatment and water supply schemes, were also considered. However, some options were found to be financially unviable, prompting the chief minister to call for more cost-effective and sustainable alternatives.

The meeting also examined plans for a controlled agriculture science and education park aimed at improving crop productivity and food security, as well as a tyre recycling project to be set up in a special economic zone.