Punjab Province

Lahore | ReNews International Desk News
Although air conditioning has become common in many parts of the world, its use remains relatively limited across Europe. Reports suggest that only around 20 percent of Europeans have access to air conditioning, mainly due to legal, economic, cultural and structural reasons.
One major factor is the presence of historic buildings and strict heritage protection rules in several European cities. In countries such as France, regulations often restrict changes to the exterior of historic properties, including the installation of external AC units, in order to preserve the original character and architectural value of buildings.
Rental laws and housing costs are another important reason. In countries such as Germany and Austria, a large share of the population lives in rented homes. Tenants often need permission from landlords before drilling walls or installing AC units. As a result, many renters avoid making major investments in properties they do not own.
High electricity prices also play a significant role. Compared with regions such as North America, electricity costs in many European countries are considerably higher, making air conditioning expensive to run and often viewed as a luxury rather than a routine household facility.
Cultural habits have also shaped Europe’s limited use of AC. Many Europeans still prefer traditional cooling methods, such as using heavy shutters, keeping curtains closed during the day, opening windows at night and relying on natural ventilation.
Experts say that because air conditioning was not historically seen as a necessity in much of Europe, there is also a shortage of trained AC installers. In some areas, installation can cost thousands of euros and may require bookings months in advance.

Rawalpindi: [ReNews Pakistan]
The National Engineering Services Pakistan (NESPAK) has recommended expanding the existing M 2 Motorway instead of constructing a new road alignment for the second phase of the Rawalpindi Ring Road (RRR), according to a comprehensive feasibility study submitted to the Rawalpindi Development Authority (RDA).
The study, prepared jointly by NESPAK and ACE Private Limited, proposes widening the motorway by adding two additional lanes on each side between the Thalian Interchange and the Srinagar Interchange. The report concludes that this option offers the most practical, economically viable and sustainable solution for accommodating future traffic growth while minimizing construction costs.
According to the feasibility report, expanding the existing motorway infrastructure would substantially increase traffic carrying capacity and improve travel efficiency without the need for a completely new alignment. The proposal is expected to facilitate smoother movement of passenger vehicles as well as heavy commercial and freight traffic, which is projected to increase significantly over the coming years.
The consultants evaluated three alternative alignments for the second phase of the Rawalpindi Ring Road before selecting the motorway expansion as the preferred option. The report notes that utilizing the existing motorway corridor would reduce land acquisition requirements, lower environmental impacts and accelerate project implementation compared to constructing a separate roadway.
The feasibility report has been submitted to the Rawalpindi Development Authority and is expected to be forwarded to the Punjab government for review and approval. Provincial authorities will determine whether the recommended alignment will be incorporated into the next phase of the region's long term transport development strategy.
The proposed Phase II is designed to extend the benefits of the under construction Rs 47 billion Rawalpindi Ring Road project, which currently terminates at the Thalian Interchange. Once implemented, the expansion is expected to provide stronger connectivity between the motorway network and G T Road, improving access for commuters, logistics operators and industrial traffic across Rawalpindi and surrounding areas.
Officials believe the project would play an important role in strengthening regional transport infrastructure, easing congestion on major routes and supporting future urban and economic growth. Improved connectivity is also expected to enhance trade logistics, reduce travel times and increase the efficiency of freight movement between northern and central Pakistan.
If approved by the Punjab government, the motorway expansion will become a key component of the broader Rawalpindi Ring Road development programme, further reinforcing the capital region's transport network and supporting long term infrastructure planning.

Lahore | Renews Pakistan
The Punjab government has enforced a new comprehensive legal and institutional framework for the protection, restoration and management of historic heritage across the province.
The government has implemented the Walled City of Lahore Authority Amendment Act 2026, under which the jurisdiction of the Walled City of Lahore Authority has been expanded beyond Lahore to the entire province of Punjab.
Following the new law, all historic walled cities, heritage areas, ancient buildings and historic properties across Punjab will come under one legal system and a strengthened authority. The move is aimed at protecting heritage sites from illegal construction, encroachments, unregulated repairs, commercial pressure and activities that may damage their original cultural identity.
Under the amended law, the Lahore Heritage Area Revival Board has also been established, while the Chief Minister of Punjab will serve as the chairperson of the authority. The authority will be empowered to oversee restoration of historic buildings, planning of heritage areas, monitoring of development works and legal action against violations.
According to the new framework, violations related to historic heritage may result in fines of up to Rs 2 million. All offences under the law have been declared non bailable. Officials say the new legislation will help establish a stronger and more coordinated system for heritage protection in Punjab and preserve the original identity of the province’s historic cities and cultural landmarks.