Punjab Province

Lahore | ReNews Pakistan
Punjab Minister for Housing and Urban Development Bilal Yaseen has termed the large-scale housing construction plan under the “Apni Chhat Apna Ghar” programme commendable, saying the initiative reflects the government’s commitment to addressing the housing needs of citizens.
The minister expressed these views during a meeting with Sikandar Zeeshan, Director General of Punjab Housing and Town Planning Agency (PHATA), who briefed him in detail on the progress of the programme and other departmental matters.
During the briefing, the DG PHATA informed that the number of registered individuals under the scheme has exceeded 1.9 million, while more than 1.135 million applications have been received so far.
Bilal Yaseen said the overwhelming public response demonstrates the importance of the programme, adding that the government is committed to accelerating efforts to facilitate citizens in obtaining affordable housing.
He further noted that the initiative aims to help deserving families realize their dream of owning a home while promoting planned urban development across the province.

Rawalpindi: ReNews Pakistan
Authorities have decided to introduce new land reforms aimed at eliminating unnecessary delays in property dispute cases and improving efficiency in the revenue system.
The decision was taken during a meeting held at the Commissioner's Office, Rawalpindi, under the chairmanship of Aamir Khattak, where participants reviewed proposals related to reforms in land administration.
Under the proposed reforms, strict action will be taken against patwaris found negligent in performing their duties or delaying the resolution of public issues. Officials and staff who fail to complete property-related cases within the prescribed timeframe may face fines and departmental proceedings, while suspension could also be considered if required.
Officials said the primary objective of the reforms is to remove delays in revenue matters, ensure timely decisions on land cases, and provide prompt relief to the public. Performance of patwaris and field staff will also be regularly monitored to enhance transparency and efficiency in the revenue system.
The meeting further decided that identification or preliminary cases should be resolved at the level of the Deputy Commissioner to prevent citizens from going through unnecessary judicial procedures.
However, parties will retain the legal right to approach the High Court if needed.

KASUR: ReNews Pakistan
Federal Parliamentary Secretary and Member of the National Assembly Saad Waseem Sheikh has welcomed the upgradation of Kasur from a municipal committee to a municipal corporation, describing it as a major milestone for the city’s development.
In a statement, he expressed gratitude to Almighty Allah and said the long-standing demand of the residents had finally been fulfilled after sustained efforts.
Saad Waseem Sheikh said securing municipal corporation status for Kasur was among his top priorities so that citizens could benefit from modern municipal facilities and improved urban management befitting a major city.
He added that the development would not have been possible without the support of Maryam Nawaz and Senior Provincial Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb, who took a personal interest in enhancing the administrative status of the city.
The MNA said the new status would lead to an increase in development funds for Kasur and help strengthen the local government system.
He further noted that civic services, including sanitation, road infrastructure, and street lighting, are expected to improve significantly, while a stronger administrative framework would enable quicker resolution of public issues at the local level.
Congratulating the residents of Kasur, Saad Waseem Sheikh reaffirmed his commitment to accelerating the pace of development and public service in the city.