ACEP – Econs is an emerging consulting company
which has its vision for the future.
Mohammad Salahuddin has talked to
Econs General Manager Frahat Baig who has the
ability to analyze a number of issues relating to
engineering industry in Pakistan.
How do you see the policies of the new government especially for engineering and development sectors?
The new government has just come in and is formulating its policies but due to enormous economic crises, its focus is to stabilize the economy first. I think it is too early to expect any immediate results in a very short span of time. It should be given some time for making policies and implementing them. But still, immediate steps should be taken for the strengthening of the economy. The government has not announced any policy for engineering and development as yet, it has only made a parliamentary committee for the same.
What are the major issues that consultants face in Pakistan? Major Issues for Consultants are
1. Consulting Services in Pakistan are not yet recognized/considered as compared to the International Construction Industry.
2. Low Cost of Services as Consultancy is not mandatory in Pakistan. Anyone can start construction without approved drawings/consultant.
3. The government imposes Sale Tax on Services due to which it becomes more difficult for consultants to manage. We suggest to exempt consultants from Sind Sales Tax.
4. Many Companies are operating without certification from PEC. Some senior draftsmen start consulting services at a low cost which is also a major issue for certified consultants.
Unavailability of local manufacturers of engineering goods. The government should support local industry for manufacturing most of the engineering goods in Pakistan. It reduces the cost of the project and improves the economy.
Are you satisfied with the role of Association of Consulting Engineers, Pakistan?
The role of ACEP is satisfactory for sharing the international standards & codes, building bylaws with the consulting firms and standing by the consultants in case of any legal issues. However, the association could have played a better role if they had more resources.
How do you see China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and how can Pakistani engineers be benefitted?
CPEC is hope for prosperity in the region through trade. I think it will improve Pakistan’s trade flow through multiple channels. Since Pakistan is a developing country, CPEC is a great opportunity to strengthen its economy.
As regards benefits for Pakistani engineers, the government has recently stated that the majority of workers and engineers working on CPEC projects are Pakistanis and they are performing in the power sector besides project management. Thus, the role of Pakistani engineers in CPEC projects is very much there and it will continue in the future.
Tell us about Econs and its major projects?
Econs which is an MEP Engineering Consultancy Company was founded in March 2011 by young and experienced professionals with an aim to bridge a gap between ever-changing needs of the construction industry and current consultancy services.
Econs is providing Electrical, IT, HVAC, Plumbing and Automation services with a focus on client requirements. It has evolved as a company based on providing creative and high-quality services to its clients. We have done over 350 projects of different nature and capacities, some are them are: Coronet Foods (Pvt.) Limited, Hattar, 200KVA Solar Power System at Civil Hospital, Jacobabad, Electrical Infrastructure and Power up-gradation, Liaqat National Hospital, Karachi, McDonald Restaurants and etc.
What are your future plans?
We plan to turn this small consulting firm into a big concern. Also, we want to provide design services through using the latest engineering application like Rivet. Also, we wish to get ISO certification and become lead professionals.n
