Construction industry must be fully supported by govt, says Irfan Wahid.

Byline: Shabbir Kazmi

Interview with Mr Irfan Wahid - Chief Executive Officer, Global Financial Solutions (GFS) Builders & Developers

Global Financial Solutions (GFS) Builders & Developers is a projectized organization offering a full range of construction services and investment management while maintaining a strong foundation of trust and mutual respect generated through positive relationship with clients, architects, engineers, sub-contractors and suppliers. A company-wide policy encouraging shared performance responsibility ensures the highest degree of professional service and result on all projects. GFS has been into the field of building and construction/land development for more than 15 years. GSF has built a wide range of projects from residential to commercial in various classifications/sizes and managed client investment in diversified areas, each project encompasses both high quality and value that GFS brings to each of its Project. As Chief Executive Officer of GFS, Irfan Wahid is one of Pakistan's leading and diversified builder.

He has held engineering, supervision and executive positions spanning six years in London and New York. He has also served as a Vice President of all defence builders association. Following are excerpts from his exclusive interview.

PAGE: GFS has more than 15-years history, what has been its prime motive?

Irfan Wahid: Our primary motive has been to provide quality housing units that are affordable. We have ventured into walled cities as well as apartments. Most of the plots are 80 and 120 square yards and structure is termed ground plus one. The walled cities have all the civic amenities and infrastructure was built before offering the plots for sale. Out latest and iconic project is Seven Wonders City Phase II, located near Nooriabad, about 75 minutes drive from Karachi. Other projects include:

PAGE: Most of the projects being constructed in Karachi are being located in suburbs, what are the reasons for this paradigm shift?

Irfan Wahid: At present, the population of Karachi is estimated above 30 million, which is also growing at a very fast pace. The annual demand for new housing units is estimated around 300,000, at least. There are two options, vertical and horizontal expansion. Construction of bypasses and motorways has reduced the travelling time. Therefore, those desirous of living away from congestion are moving to suburbs. This process can be further expedited if government offers land to...