LAHORE: Provincial Minister for Information and Culture Azma Bokhari has said that Punjab has embarked on the largest and most transparent development journey in its history.
The govt aimed to uplift the public from conditions of neglect and underdevelopment and provide a clean, modern living environment.
She expressed these views while speaking to the media after receiving a detailed briefing on development projects and the law and order situation at the Deputy Commissioner’s Office in Sheikhupura.
Azma revealed that CM has announced a historic development package worth Rs48 billion for Sheikhupura. Under this package, extensive work is under way across the district, including the construction of new roads, modern sewerage systems, water tanks, and city beautification projects.
She emphasised that, unlike in the past, development is no longer limited to selected areas but is now reaching every town and village across Punjab. An amount exceeding Rs12.5 billion has been allocated specifically for Wasa-related projects.
Sharing a major project for the city, she announced that eco-friendly electric green buses will begin operating between Lahore and Sheikhupura within the next 10 days. This service will particularly benefit female students, working women, and elderly citizens by providing safe and dignified transportation. She directed the administration to complete the construction of modern depots and charging stations on an emergency basis.
She said that the flagship programmes ‘Suthra Punjab’ and ‘Model Village’ are transforming rural areas. Under these initiatives, projects worth Rs809 million are being implemented to provide sewerage systems and basic facilities. She added that, for the first time in 74 years, a structured waste management system has been established.
Highlighting improvements in law and order, she appreciated the performance of the Punjab Police, stating that significant progress has been achieved, including up to a 40% reduction in rape cases. She reaffirmed the govt’s commitment to intensifying crackdown on drug trafficking and child abuse.
Azma noted that discussions about improvements in schools, hospitals, law and order, and green transport are now taking place across the province. The CM has launched over 100 development projects within a short period.She credited the party’s leadership for strong defence responses and diplomatic achievements, noting that Pakistan is gaining global recognition, including through platforms like the Islamabad Talks.
Regarding rising prices of essential commodities, she stated that the issue is under the CM’s attention and will be controlled soon. She said that the Punjab government is improving the standard of public schools, which is evident from the growing number of applicants seeking admission to institutions like the Nawaz Sharif Centre of Excellence, where long queues of students can now be seen.
