Punjab Province

Lahore | ReNews Pakistan
The Punjab government has achieved significant financial savings of Rs28 billion through a transparent tendering process across multiple development schemes, officials revealed during a high level review meeting of the Punjab Development Programme (PDP).
Chairing the meeting ,Punjab Local Government Minister Zeeshan Rafique said the savings reflect improved governance, accountability, and efficiency in public sector projects.
He highlighted that out of 55 suction machines planned for different cities have already been procured, while the acquisition process for 55 jetting machines and 100 dewatering sets is actively progressing. Additionally, the purchase of 77 desilting machines is in its final stages.
The minister stressed that the induction of modern machinery will play a critical role in addressing urban flooding issues, particularly during the monsoon season. He noted that, under the directives of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, a comprehensive system of underground water storage tanks is being developed across major cities.
These tanks, to be constructed along roads, will ensure prompt drainage of rainwater and allow stored water to be reused when needed, improving overall water management.
Rafique further stated that the government is focusing on strengthening drainage infrastructure through the rehabilitation of 61 existing disposal stations, alongside the construction of 56 new ones. He added that a long term urban development master plan extending to 2050 has been prepared under the PDP to guide sustainable growth.
The minister also revealed that advanced pipe lining technology has been successfully introduced in Pakistan, with plants being installed in multiple cities. Development work is currently ongoing in 51 cities under the supervision of the Local Government Department as part of the “Beautiful Punjab” initiative, aimed at modernising urban infrastructure and enhancing civic facilities.

Rawalpindi: [ReNews Pakistan]
Authorities have decided to construct water storage tanks along the Rawalpindi Ring Road to support operational requirements and facilitate public use, including services for the Parks and Horticulture Authority.
The directive was issued by Commissioner Rawalpindi Division, Engineer Amir Khattak, during a high-level meeting to review progress on the long-awaited infrastructure project. He also disclosed that a proposal is under consideration to establish a dedicated policing system for the Ring Road, including a separate traffic police force to ensure smooth traffic flow once the road becomes functional.
Addressing ongoing challenges, the commissioner pointed out that disruptions in the supply of construction materials and rising water levels have contributed to delays. He emphasized the need for stronger coordination among relevant departments to overcome these hurdles and prevent further setbacks.
The meeting also reviewed pending payments related to land acquisition. Khattak directed officials to send letters to concerned deputy commissioners for the immediate clearance of dues, warning that delays in payments could impact the project timeline.
Highlighting the importance of the project, he stated that the 38 kilometre Rawalpindi Ring Road will play a crucial role in reducing traffic congestion in Rawalpindi and Islamabad. He added that approximately 85 percent of the work has already been completed.
Officials informed the meeting that construction on major components is nearing completion. The Railway Bridge and Maira Mohra Interchange are 99 percent complete, while the Nala Bridge has reached 97 percent completion.
Upon completion, the Ring Road is expected to significantly enhance traffic flow, improve connectivity between the twin cities, and contribute to broader urban development in the region.

Lahore: [Riaz Hussain ReNews]
Director General LDA, Tahir Farooq, visited the ongoing development projects at the Data Darbar expansion scheme, Bhatti Chowk Underpass, and surrounding areas of the Railway Station, reviewing the progress in detail.
During the visit, Chief Engineer TEPA Iqrar Hussain and Chief Engineer LDA Asrar Saeed briefed him that work on the pedestrian zone of the Data Darbar expansion project is nearing completion, while finishing work on the pedestrian underpass is continuing round the clock. Simultaneously, work on the parking area and the courtyard (piazza) of the shrine is also in progress.
The DG LDA also inspected the Bhatti Chowk Underpass project, where he was informed that overall 37% of the work has been completed, while 85% of the piling work has been achieved. On this occasion, he directed the contractor to expedite the pace of development work to ensure timely completion.
Later, he reviewed the ongoing development activities around the Railway Station. The briefing highlighted that development of the parking area in front of the station is in its final stages, with installation of solar lights and work on seating areas underway. Additionally, teams are actively working on façade upgradation along Circular Road and in the surrounding areas of the Railway Station.
DG LDA Tahir Farooq directed that progress on both projects should be regularly monitored and all work must be completed within the stipulated timeframe.