Lahore: The Punjab government has allocated over PKR 50 billion for nine new development projects, according to a report on July 31.
The approval for these substantial development projects was granted during the 10th meeting of the Provincial Development Working Party (PDWP), a key decision-making body responsible for steering the economic and infrastructural growth of the Punjab province. This pivotal meeting was presided over by Barrister Nabeel Ahmad Awan, the Chairman of the Planning & Development (P&D) Board. Barrister Awan, known for his strategic vision and commitment to advancing the region’s development goals, led the discussions with a focus on ensuring that the projects align with the broader objectives of sustainable growth and enhanced public welfare.
The approved projects cover a diverse array of sectors, each critical to the socio-economic fabric of Punjab. Spanning across irrigation, urban development, education, energy, and infrastructure, these initiatives represent a comprehensive approach to regional development. The total estimated budget for these projects amounts to an impressive PKR 50,766.848 million, reflecting the government’s significant investment in the future of Punjab. By addressing multiple sectors, these projects aim to create a balanced development trajectory that improves the province’s physical infrastructure and enhances the quality of life for its citizens.
Among the key initiatives are:
- Extension of the Colony Protection Bund at Marala Barrage and the Realignment of Tunnelwah Nullah in Sialkot District, costing PKR 3,162.289 million.
- Apni Chaat Apna Ghar Program with an allocation of PKR 9,889.681 million.
- Chief Minister Punjab Schools Meal Program, funded with PKR 6,011.228 million.
- CM’s Agro-Forestry Initiative for Forest Waste Land, with a budget of PKR 1,000 million.
- Chief Minister’s “Plant for Pakistan” initiative, allocated PKR 8,000 million.
- Aquaculture Shrimp Farming in Punjab, receiving PKR 8,530.490 million.
- Chief Minister Roshan Gharaana Program with a budget of PKR 9,500 million.
- Rehabilitation of G.T Road from Quaid-e-Azam Interchange to Wagah Border in Lahore, costing PKR 3,282.450 million.
- Construction of an underpass at Kachehri Rasulnagar Road Railway Crossing in Sheikhupura, with an allocation of PKR 1,390.710 million.
Key participants at the conference included Chief Economist Dr. Nasir Iqbal Malik, Secretary P&D Board Dr. Asif Tufail, and other top executives from pertinent provincial departments.
