KARACHI: Pakistan’s First Lady Samina Arif Alvi on Tuesday highlighted the importance of implementing the Zainab Alert Act, establishing a single integrated helpline, and fostering close coordination among relevant organizations for the prompt recovery of missing children.
Chairing a meeting during a visit to Roshni Helpline, a non-governmental organization dedicated to the recovery of missing children, the First Lady proposed a universal helpline that consolidates public complaints and facilitates joint efforts for more effective outcomes.
She noted the existence of various organizations with separate helplines, both in the public and private sectors, leading to potential confusion for citizens seeking assistance. Begum Alvi suggested the establishment of a unified helpline that streamlines public complaints and emergency calls, ensuring that all organizations collaborate under one umbrella. This approach would enable citizens to access the helpline easily, with matters referred to the most relevant organization for swift and effective action.
During the meeting, the First Lady received a briefing from Roshni Helpline’s founder, Muhammad Ali, and other board members. They shared insights into the organization’s vision, performance, and initiatives aimed at protecting children, particularly in the recovery of missing children.
Roshni Helpline outlined its coordination efforts with various entities, including the Ministry of Human Rights, Sindh Police, provincial child protection agencies, Pakistan Railways, and the Council of Islamic Ideology.
Highlighting their achievements, Roshni Helpline reported assisting over 20,000 families and aiding in the recovery of more than 9,000 missing children since its inception. The organization has also taken steps to enhance awareness and outreach.
Begum Samina Arif Alvi commended Roshni Helpline for its dedication and services in the recovery of missing children. The Roshni team later presented a souvenir shield and a performance report to the First Lady.
