Preparations for Y2K
compliance are in high gear globally.
Companies are plugged on their internal critical system. Everyone
seems to be taking care of its own shop and relying on others to do their part. New
penalties for non-compliance are adding to the pressure worldwide. Since the deadline is
non-negotiable, it is imperative for the local companies to be Y2K compliant. Cover story
focuses on four areas — the level of awareness and commitment, implementation
progress, the extent of internal and external testing and the availability of contingency
plans. Added factors include government commitment and regulator support.
CIGARETTE
Local cigarette manufacturers took an undue advantage of the
post-budget confusion by increasing the prices deceptively. The smokers are not only taxed
with increased prices which have nothing to do with the budget but the unannounced
increases also goes against the norms of good business practices.
NESTLE
Nestle, the producer of a varied range of dairy products and
fruit juices, is playing a vital role to produce a wide-range of hygienically packaged
products to cater to the needs of changing preferences in Pakistan.
LPG
Shortage of Liquid Petroleum Gas (LPG) in Karachi has forced
thousands of cab drivers either to buy it at Rs60 per kg against the official price of
Rs20 per kg or take their vehicles off road.
KARACHI BEACHES
Karachi beaches stretched over miles and miles could have been
the most outstanding feature both for tourism as well as the economic development of the
country. Instead of supporting the economy our beaches have become a death trap for
innocent visitors due to lack of facilities. Too many cooks have spoiled the broth.
