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FAISALABAD, Nov 04 (APP):Divisional Commissioner Raja Jahangir Anwar stated that all government departments in Faisalabad will adopt industry- and business-friendly strategies to foster an environment conducive to trade and investment. He emphasized that officials creating unnecessary obstacles for the business community would not be tolerated.
Speaking at a meeting with the business community at the Faisalabad Chamber of Commerce & Industry (FCCI), he announced that a notification would be issued immediately to appoint an Additional Commissioner as the focal person for direct coordination with the chamber to resolve business-related issues.
He advised traders not to succumb to pressure or make payments if any official demands undue money. Instead, they should approach the designated focal person, who would halt any unwarranted departmental actions and ensure relief through proper channels.
Raja Jahangir Anwar underscored his administration’s commitment to easing the process of doing business and highlighted the launch of the eBis platform, which has significantly streamlined the licensing process for new businesses. He revealed that 66 types of unnecessary licenses had been abolished, and applications can now be submitted electronically. Three essential licenses would also be issued within 24 hours under the direct supervision of the Deputy Commissioner.
The Business Facilitation Centre has already issued over 12,000 licenses, marking a milestone in administrative reform, he added.
The Commissioner also mentioned the launch of the “Hello Faisalabad” WhatsApp service, powered by artificial intelligence, which is designed to prioritize and resolve public complaints related to service delivery departments efficiently.
Appreciating the role of the FCCI during last year’s floods, he lauded their timely distribution of seeds to affected farmers, calling it a commendable initiative that helped improve food security and mitigate inflationary pressures.
Raja Jahangir Anwar also endorsed the chamber’s proposal to construct a ramp at its entrance and rename Canal Road as Shahrah-e-Ewan-e-Sanat-o-Tijarat in recognition of Faisalabad’s industrial importance.
Updating the audience on ongoing city development projects, he revealed that 30 electric buses are already operating on two routes, with 60 more buses set to be added soon, expanding the service to eight routes.
He further disclosed that Faisalabad would soon have a tram service and metro bus system, following a recent visit from the provincial transport minister.
Under the Safe City Project, he shared that 1,600 surveillance cameras have been installed across the city, and private security cameras are being integrated into the monitoring network. An additional 800 cameras are planned for the industrial zones of FIEDMC and surrounding areas.
Raja Jahangir Anwar also mentioned that work had resumed on the long-delayed multi-storey parking plaza, with another plaza planned on railway land near Montgomery Bazaar to address the city’s parking needs.
He revealed that an ambitious project worth Rs. 1 billion is underway to revamp Faisalabad’s eight major bazaars, including replacing outdated electrical systems and undergrounding essential utility services. Of this cost, Rs. 300 million will be contributed by the Municipal Corporation and Rs. 700 million by FESCO.
Additionally, electric carts have been introduced for intra-city movement, with six more carts to be added soon. Several stalled development schemes have now been reactivated, including the rehabilitation of 11 major city roads, with work set to begin shortly.
He invited the FCCI to submit practical proposals to boost exports, trade, and industrial growth, so these could be included in the next Annual Development Program. He also revealed plans to establish a meat testing laboratory in Faisalabad to support the export of halal meat products.
Regarding coordination with local departments, the Commissioner announced that heads of WASA, PHA, Solid Waste Management Company, and other service agencies would visit the chamber soon to discuss and resolve business community issues promptly.
On environmental concerns, he emphasized that the Environment Protection Department (EPD) and industries must work together to curb pollution-related diseases while safeguarding both livelihoods and economic activity.
“Every month, around 600,000 to 700,000 people fall ill and visit government hospitals due to pollution-related causes. It is not just the government’s duty, but also the responsibility of the private sector to address the root causes of such health hazards,” he added.
Earlier, FCCI President Farooq Yousaf Sheikh praised the Commissioner’s administrative acumen, noting that many stalled projects have resumed since his arrival, sparking optimism for positive change in Faisalabad.
He announced the formation of a Chamber Coordination Committee to review complaints and liaise with the focal person appointed by the Commissioner, ensuring improved communication between the business community and government departments.
Farooq Yousaf Sheikh reaffirmed the chamber’s commitment to collaborative governance, aimed at resolving business challenges, improving citizen services, and enhancing departmental performance.
He also highlighted ongoing welfare projects, including initiatives for education, flood rehabilitation, and clean water supply, supported by local philanthropists.
During the question-and-answer session, Senior Vice President FCCI Naveed Akram Sheikh, Bao Akram, Arif Ehsan Malik, Bilal Jameel, Jawad Shafiq, Shahid Majeed, Rubina Amjad, Mian Muhammad Tayyab, Shakeel Ansari, Rana Sikandar Azam, Muzammil Sultan, Tariq Mehmood Qadri, Abdullah Qadri, Hajji Muhammad Abid, Hajji Gulzar, and Abdul Rehman participated and shared their views.
Later, FCCI President Farooq Yousaf Sheikh presented a special collar pin, commemorative shield, and gifts to Divisional Commissioner Raja Jahangir Anwar in honor of the FCCI’s 50th anniversary.
Earlier, the Commissioner also dispatched a consignment of wheat seeds to flood-affected farmers in Jhang and Chiniot districts.