Karachi:
Main Minister Murad Ali Shah inaugurated a rehabilitation center for children with physical and neurological development challenges on Monday.
The facility was established through collaboration between Marie Adelaide Leprosy Center (MALC), Department of Empowerment of Person’s With Disabilities (DEPD) and the government.
The inauguration event participated by Depd Secretary Taha Ahmed Farooqi, the German Consul General Dr. Rüdiger Lotz, Global Health Advisor German Leprosy and TB Relief Association (GLRA) DR Anil Fasstino and Malc CEO Mervyn Francis, including remarkable figures.
CM, which calls the center a lighthouse for children with conditions such as autism and Down syndrome, as well as other physical and neurological challenges, CM expressed that the government’s vision is to provide treatment and opportunities for these children so that they can live worthy and fulfilling lives.
CM Shah revealed that the center offers a comprehensive selection of services provided by specialists. These include physiotherapy to improve children’s physical development, speech therapy to improve communication, remedial therapy to support cognitive development, behavioral therapy to encourage constructive behavior, occupational therapy focusing on daily life skills and a sensory space to help children with sensory treatment. Furthermore, the plant also offers a play area under professional supervision. CM visited the center, reviewed the facilities and met with the children.
He also said the government has set aside 100 hectares of land near Malir Expressway to create an inclusive city for people with special needs. The city provides schools, rehabilitation centers, vocational education institutes, a hospital, a neuropsychiatric ward and housing facilities as well as a 20 Acre Park to offer a safe playground for children with special needs together with a large building offices in various welfare organizations.
CM said the city would become a model of accessibility and opportunities where people with disabilities could live independently and actively contribute to society.
Meanwhile, similar to a question, CM Shah said the provincial budget would be presented on June 13, 2025 with special attention to the agricultural sector. In addition, he urged provincial representation on the boards of K-electric (KE) and other power distribution companies so that Sindh’s consumers can take advantage directly.
He also said the government wants to operate Hyderabad Electric Supply Company (Hesco) and Sukkur Electric Power Company (SEPCO) under a public-private partnership model.
CM revealed that discussions with the federal government about the case are ongoing and while progress is being made, the results will take time.
