Latest news with #PunjabDevelopmentProgram


Business Recorder
a day ago
- Business
- Business Recorder
First phase of PDP: PC-1 submission begins, 21 cities prioritised
LAHORE: Submission of PC-1 of development schemes in various cities under Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif's Punjab Development Program (PDP) has begun and 21 cities have been included in the priority list in the first phase of PDP. This was disclosed during a meeting chaired by Punjab Local Government Minister Zeeshan Rafiq on Friday. Special Secretary Arshad Baig and Additional Secretary Ahmer Kaifi attended the meeting while Syed Zahid Aziz, Managing Director of Punjab Municipal Development Fund Company (PMDFC), was also present. While addressing the meeting, the Minister said that PC-1s of five cities including Gujrat, Daska, Layyah, Attock and Nankana Sahib, have been submitted, while PC-1s of Khanewal and Wazirabad cities are in the final stages. He further said that PC-1s of development works in 14 more cities will be submitted during July; these cities include Kamoke, Vehari, Muridke, Toba Tek Singh, Khushab, Bahawalnagar, Bhakkar, Burewala, Gojra, Jaranwala, Kamalia, Kot Addu, Lodhran and Sheikhupura. He noted that PDP is a unique and comprehensive project of this government which includes schemes of sewerage, rainwater drainage, and paving of streets. 'In addition, there will be work on building rainwater storage tanks and rehabilitating parks,' he added. He also said that every small and big city will be brought under the purview of the PDP in a phased manner. 'The PMDFC and PMU will monitor the projects while the steering committee at the provincial level monitors all the issues,' he added. He urged the officials present in the meeting to implement the instructions issued by the steering committee, adding that the money saved from any scheme would be invested in another city. Copyright Business Recorder, 2025


Business Recorder
4 days ago
- Politics
- Business Recorder
Strict monitoring of all routes of Muharram processions ordered
LAHORE: Punjab Information Minister and in-charge of Muharram Arrangements for Faisalabad Division, Azma Bokhari, visited Chiniot to review the administrative and security preparations for the sacred month of Muharram. At the Deputy Commissioner's Office, DC Safiullah Gondal and DPO Abdullah Ahmad briefed the minister on the ongoing arrangements. Addressing the officials, Azma Bokhari gave clear directives, stating that providing protection and essential facilities to mourners is the top priority of the Punjab Government. No negligence or loophole will be tolerated under any circumstances.' Meeting with procession organizers and license holders, the minister emphasized that the Muharram teaches us patience, harmony, and unity. On the directions of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, we are actively working across all districts to ensure peace and smooth arrangements at every level.' She noted that strict monitoring of all routes of processions and religious gatherings is in progress. Flashpoints are on high alert, security agencies are in full coordination, and scholars from Peace Committees are in close contact. She said a zero-tolerance policy is in place for those spreading hate or incitement on social media. A dedicated team is monitoring online activity 24/7, and no miscreant will escape legal action.' She also shared that CCTV surveillance is active along procession routes. Facilities such as mobile hospitals, clinics-on-wheels, and water sprinklers are available for the convenience of mourners. 'This is not just a religious responsibility; it is a national duty to maintain peace and order, and it requires joint efforts from all segments of society, she said.' The minister added that she would remain present in the Faisalabad Division until the conclusion of Ashura processions and gatherings. She appreciated the performance of the Chiniot administration and expressed satisfaction over the arrangements made by local organizers. Speaking to the media, Azma highlighted the progress under the Punjab Development Program, stating: 'Streets are being built across the province, villages are being turned into model villages, and sewerage systems are being upgraded.' She concluded by saying that with collective efforts, we will promote exemplary peace, tolerance, and unity during the sacred days of Muharram.' Copyright Business Recorder, 2025


Express Tribune
20-02-2025
- Politics
- Express Tribune
CM Maryam Nawaz approves new sewage and drainage system
Listen to article Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has approved a new sewage and drainage system for the major cities of the province, Express News reported. This initiative marks the first time a comprehensive sewage and water drainage plan is being implemented for all large cities in Punjab. The Chief Minister has instructed authorities to create detailed plans for 189 cities with populations exceeding 100,000. The new system will include upgrades to sewage, water drainage, stormwater management, road repairs, and other essential development projects. As part of the plan, the government has decided to establish sewage bypasses and disposal stations in cities for the first time. Additionally, storage tanks will be built for the immediate drainage of rainwater, with the stored water being repurposed for irrigation and other uses. The plan also includes the strategic installation of sewage and water supply pipelines at appropriate distances to prevent contamination. Clean water pipelines will be kept separate from sewage lines to maintain water quality. Furthermore, 30 kilometers of roads in each provincial constituency will undergo construction and repair. During a special meeting, the Chief Minister also approved the proposal to create model villages in Punjab, with immediate steps for the implementation of the Punjab Development Program. Maryam Nawaz emphasized that the Clean Punjab Program will benefit the province's 150 million residents, addressing the longstanding issues caused by inadequate sewage systems. She assured that the new system will help protect roads from wear and tear and ensure better public services across the province.