Lahore | ReNews Pakistan
The Government of Punjab has introduced a modern monitoring mechanism to ensure effective oversight of development projects being executed under the Chief Minister Punjab Development Programme, aiming to improve transparency and timely completion of infrastructure and housing-related initiatives across the province.
According to officials of the Housing and Urban Development Department, Punjab, the initiative has been launched on the directives of Secretary Housing Noorul Amin Mengal. As part of the initiative, a digital monitoring dashboard has been developed to track the implementation and progress of development projects.
A departmental spokesperson said the dashboard incorporates advanced monitoring features and unique performance parameters to evaluate the pace and quality of work. The system allows authorities to monitor project execution in real time and identify implementation gaps promptly.
Officials noted that the digital monitoring framework is expected to strengthen governance and ensure improved supervision of development activities, particularly those related to urban infrastructure, land development, and housing schemes across Punjab.

Lahore | ReNews Pakistan
Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has approved a proposal to clear flood zones across the province within three months, directing authorities to remove illegal structures obstructing natural waterways and river passages.
The approval was granted during a special meeting on post-flood management chaired by the chief minister, where relevant departments presented a comprehensive briefing on flood risks, encroachments in water channels, and preventive measures for future disaster management.
During the meeting, the chief minister directed strict enforcement of the ban on construction within riverbeds, flood channels, and natural drainage corridors, warning that such encroachments pose serious risks to nearby settlements and disrupt the natural flow of water during heavy rains and flooding.
The provincial government also decided that no financial compensation will be provided for illegal structures built within waterways if they collapse or sustain damage during floods, stressing the need for compliance with environmental and urban planning regulations.
In addition, the meeting approved the restructuring of the Provincial Disaster Management Authority to enhance institutional capacity for disaster preparedness and emergency response. As part of the reform initiative, eight new operational wings will be established within the authority to strengthen planning, coordination, and rapid response mechanisms during natural disasters.
Officials stated that the measures aim to improve flood risk management, protect residential communities, and ensure safer urban and rural development across Punjab. The government also emphasised the importance of coordinated action among provincial departments to mitigate future flood hazards and safeguard public infrastructure.

Lahore | ReNews Pakistan
The Punjab government has announced a major initiative to enhance security in residential areas across the province. Each district will now have a dedicated anti-drone system under the supervision of the District Police Officer (DPO), supported by specialized drone fleets to monitor and neutralize unauthorized aerial activity. Officials stated that the anti-drone systems will use advanced jamming technology to immediately disable drones operated by miscreants or hostile actors, providing an added layer of protection for communities.
The Home Department has advised citizens to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the local police control rooms or helpline 1422 to enable swift response. Section 144 remains in force, banning unauthorized drone flights, with exemptions only for small indoor drones used for events or by law enforcement and intelligence agencies.
This initiative reflects Punjab’s commitment to safeguarding residential areas, ensuring public safety, and creating a secure living environment. The deployment of drones and anti-drone systems is expected to significantly improve monitoring capabilities and provide residents with greater peace of mind, both inside their homes and in surrounding neighborhoods.