Major Boost for Provincial Development
LAHORE – The Punjab Provincial Development Working Party (PDWP) has approved development funds worth Rs36 billion for a range of new projects across the province. The decision was made during a high-level meeting chaired by Dr. Naeem Rauf, Chairman of the Planning and Development Board.
According to the official statement, the approved projects aim to improve agriculture, infrastructure, and public utilities, with a focus on balanced regional growth and sustainable urbanization.
Regional Allocation of Funds
The PDWP outlined detailed allocations for several regions and sectors:
Potohar Region: Rs7.3 billion has been set aside to promote agricultural development and enhance farming infrastructure.
Murree: Rs2.7 billion will go toward expanding the popular Kashmir Bazaar, aiming to support local businesses and tourism.
Narowal (Shakargarh to Kot Nainan): Rs1.14 billion has been approved for the construction and rehabilitation of the key road connecting Girls Degree College and nearby towns.
Punjab Inclusive Cities Program: Rs7 billion will fund improved water and sanitation services in selected urban areas.
Sahiwal North Zone: Rs12.94 billion has been allocated for the upgrade of water supply and sewerage systems.
Sahiwal South Zone: Rs4.49 billion will strengthen the sewerage infrastructure.
Sahiwal District: An additional Rs410 million will be used for road construction and maintenance.
These investments are expected to create jobs and improve living conditions across both rural and urban Punjab.
Additional Projects Approved
The PDWP also cleared several position papers and preliminary proposals for future initiatives. These include:
The Faisalabad Mass Transit System seed money project, which will now be forwarded to the Central Working Party (CWP) for final approval.
A High-Power Tractor Program aimed at modernizing the agriculture sector.
Development of a Crop Reporting and Forecasting Information System to improve agricultural planning.
Promotion of date palm cultivation in South Punjab, supporting local farmers and diversifying the province’s agricultural base.
Focus on Long-Term Growth
Officials say these initiatives are part of the Punjab government’s broader strategy to enhance infrastructure, boost agricultural output, and improve urban services.
Punjab, Pakistan’s most populous province, contributes nearly 60% of the country’s GDP. However, regional disparities persist, especially between urban and rural areas. The newly approved projects are intended to narrow these gaps by ensuring more equitable access to basic facilities.
Dr. Naeem Rauf emphasized that the government remains committed to sustainable and inclusive development, ensuring that every rupee spent translates into visible improvement in people’s lives.
