The whole nation is deeply grieved over the tragic casualties of a large number of people caused by the torrential rains and devastating floods. It is high time that businessmen should come forward and play their positive role by giving generous financial and material help to the bereaved and uprooted families.

This was stressed by Mr.Zahid Maqbool, President, Islamabad Chamber of Commerce & Industry (ICCI) while addressing an oath-taking ceremony of Traders Welfare Association, I-8 Markaz, Islamabad. He condoled with bereaved families and expressed full solidarity with the flood victims. Mr. Abdul Jabbar Malano, Member Engineering, CDA was the Chief Guest while large number of traders of different markets participated in the ceremony.

Mr.Zahid Maqbool also appealed to the philanthropists, Chambers & Associations, social workers & NGOs  to extend their full support to the flood affectees so that they could re-establish themselves to normal life. It is the need of the hour that every one should play a part in mitigating the sufferings of those who have been struck by this natural calamity, he observed.

He said government should make contingency plans to restore the badly damaged communication infrastructure system, especially the roads so that relief could reach the affectees on time. He said the outreach of the disaster management system needs to be further spread and made more effective as its current performance is much below the desired level.  There should be a coordinating cell in every affected locality to make relief efforts well integrated and target oriented.

Mr. Abdul Jabbar Malano speaking on the occasion, said that I-8 Markaz has now emerged as an important commercial center of the federal capital and CDA would further develop it at par with Super and Jinnah Super Markets.

He said despite facing financial constraints, CDA would make all possible efforts to complete the ongoing development projects in Islamabad.  He said traders are playing a key role in the economy by promoting business activities, therefore, their problems will be addressed on priority.

Mr.Munawar Mughal, Chairman ICCI Founder Group said that Trade Associations should always work for the just cause of traders. However, no defaulter should be protected as who doesn’t pay dues, is not sincere to the country. He urged for early promulgation of a balanced rent control act in Islamabad that could provide justice to all stakeholders.

Mr.Dildar Abbasi, the newly elected President of Traders Welfare Association, I-8 Markaz said that development works in I-8 Markaz are still incomplete and CDA should urgently complete its job. He also highlighted different issues being faced by the traders of I-8 Markaz and asked CDA for their early resolution by the CDA.

Mr.Ajmal Baloch Organizing Secretary Traders Action Committee, Malik Rab Nawaz President Jinnah Super Market and Khalid Mehmood Chaudhry Secretary Information Traders Action Committee were also attended the ceremony.