Federal Minister for Defence Khawaja Asif expressed deep regret over the 16-year delay in completing the Sialkot Tannery Zone (STZ) project.

Speaking at a meeting on Saturday, he highlighted the prolonged inaction despite a loan of Rs. 290 million sanctioned in 2008 by the Punjab Environment Department.

He issued a firm warning that after December 30, no tannery would be allowed to operate outside the designated zone.

Strict action will follow if the project isn’t operational by January 1, 2025.

Khawaja Asif vowed to raise this issue in the National Assembly and take the case to the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) to hold those responsible for the delay accountable.