Lahore: In a significant boost to Punjab’s infrastructure and public services, the Provincial Development Working Party (PDWP) has approved nine development schemes across various sectors, with a combined budget exceeding Rs 50 billion, underscoring the government’s commitment to broad-based regional development.

According to Directorate General Public Relation – Govt of Punjab, the 10th meeting of the PDWP for fiscal year 2024-25 was led by Chairman P and D Board, Barrister Nabeel Ahmad Awan. The approved projects encompass sectors such as irrigation, urban development, education, forestry, energy, and transportation, reflecting a multi-faceted approach to the province’s development needs. Among the significant initiatives approved are the Extension of Colony Protection Bund of Marala Barrage and the realignment of Tunnelwah Nullah in Sialkot, with a budget of Rs 3162.289 million. Other notable schemes include the Apni Chaat Apna Ghar Program aimed at housing, funded at Rs 9889.681 million, and the Chief Minister Punjab Schools Meal Program at Rs 6011.228 million.

Further projects focus on environmental and agricultural enhancements, such as the Chief Minister’s “Plant for Pakistan” initiative with Rs 8000 million allocated, and Aquaculture Shrimp Farming in Punjab at Rs 8530.490 million. Additionally, the meeting endorsed the Chief Minister Roshan Gharaana Program with an investment of Rs 9500 million and the rehabilitation of the G.T Road from Quaid-e-Azam Interchange (Lahore Ring Road) to Wahga Border, Lahore, costing Rs 3282.450 million. The construction of an underpass at Katchehri Rasulnagar Road Railway Crossing in Sheikhupura was also approved, budgeted at Rs 1390.710 million.

The meeting was attended by Secretary P and D Board Dr Asif Tufail, Chief Economist Dr Nasir Iqbal Malik, members of the P and D Board, heads of relevant departments, and other senior representatives, highlighting the collaborative effort involved in steering these developmental goals.