Work resumes on community hall project but more funds needed

Dubai A shortage of funds may again hit the construction of the multi-purpose community hall at the Pakistan Association in Dubai if the influential Pakistanis do not come forward to salvage the project.

"We have resumed the construction of the three-storey community hall in the Pakistan Sports and Recreation Centre premises but desperately need community help to complete the project," said Riaz Farooq Sahi, president of the Pakistan Association in Dubai.

The construction of the hall was stopped about 16 years ago in 1993 due to lack of funds and differences between the different community groups.

The association has earmarked Dh1 million from its budget while the cost of the hall is Dh6.5 million. "We have already spent more than Dh400,000 to start the project but will soon need more money to continue the project," he said.

Sahi said Prime Minister of Pakistan Yousuf Raza Gilani had promised in Dubai a couple months ago that the government would provide 75 per cent of the construction cost and it will be gift to Pakistani community in Dubai, but so far they have not received any funds.

"We are launching a massive campaign because we are determined to complete the construction of the hall for the sake of the community," said Sahi.

He said apart from holding various functions to raise funds, they have also formed committees to go to Pakistani businessmen to seek their help. He also appealed all the community groups to join hands with the association to help the dream project to materialise. "Now, we have more than one million Pakistanis living in the UAE and there is an urgent need to have multi-purpose hall to organise social, cultural, educational and sports activities for them," he added.

The existing building of the Pakistan Association on Oud Metha Road in Dubai is in a dilapidated state and hardly offers any facilities to its members. "We are determined to make it a family place with facilities such as sports activities, library, health centre and even a hostel," he added.

The project has been divided into three phases. The first phase includes the construction of a multi-purpose hall and a library building at the cost of Dh6.5 million.

The second phase will include the construction of a banquet hall, association offices and a food court. The third phase will include the construction of a new mosque and 20-room accommodation for guests. The building will have parking for about 175 cars. The construction of the hall resumed on August 14 and is scheduled to be completed in March next year.

He said community members can also contribute in kind as some businessmen have already pledged to finance the aluminium and wood works.

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Those interested to help can call the association on 04-3373632 or visit www.pakistan.ae.