Punjab Information Minister Azma Bukhari has addressed the recent surge in petroleum prices, emphasizing that the decision to raise petrol rates was a challenging yet unavoidable step in light of the current global economic turmoil. She explained that the government deliberately kept the price increase lower than initially projected, aiming to ease the burden on consumers while navigating through these difficult times. Bukhari reassured the public that once the international situation stabilizes, a reduction in fuel prices will follow accordingly.
This statement came during a press briefing where the minister also highlighted the government’s commitment to large-scale development initiatives throughout Punjab. She underscored that these projects are designed not only to improve urban infrastructure but also to uplift rural communities, reflecting a comprehensive approach to provincial progress. The minister pointed out that these efforts are part of one of the most ambitious development drives in the history of Pakistan.
Meanwhile, a special video-link meeting led by Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz took place to review the ongoing progress of the Punjab Development Program, which includes critical clean water initiatives and the Model Village Project. During this session, the chief minister conducted a detailed pictorial review of various projects and issued clear instructions to expedite drainage work ahead of the upcoming monsoon season, aiming to mitigate flooding risks and improve urban sanitation.
Officials shared significant updates, revealing that Punjab is set to install an unprecedented network of 358 underground water storage tanks. This initiative marks a historic first for the province and is expected to play a crucial role in addressing water shortages, enhancing timely drainage, and protecting groundwater reserves. In urban centers, the plan includes constructing 34 major underground tanks to facilitate rainwater drainage, complemented by recharge wells designed to replenish groundwater levels.
The meeting further disclosed ambitious infrastructure targets, including the construction of 6,100 kilometers of streets and sewerage systems across various districts. To improve urban drainage, authorities plan to rehabilitate 61 existing disposal stations and build 56 new ones. Additionally, 328 wastewater treatment plants will be established province-wide, alongside the laying of 3,498 kilometers of sewerage lines in multiple cities. The initiative also includes installing street lights at nearly 15,000 locations, enhancing safety and visibility in urban and rural areas alike.
In terms of urban beautification and functionality, approximately 33 million square feet of durable tiles will be laid on streets and pathways, while 526 modern machines and tractors will be deployed to support drainage and other municipal services. The Punjab Development Program has already commenced in several cities, including Sargodha, Dera Ghazi Khan, Gujrat, Okara, Jhang, Multan, and Sialkot. Expansion plans are underway for Jhelum, Hafizabad, Sahiwal, Faisalabad, Gujranwala, Sheikhupura, Nankana Sahib, and Rawalpindi.
Under the Model Village Project, development schemes worth Rs59 billion are slated for implementation in 485 villages, with an initial phase targeting 200 villages across Punjab. Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has stressed the importance of ensuring the operational efficiency of filtration plants to provide clean drinking water and has prioritized the construction of paved streets in rural areas. She has also called for the swift completion of drainage projects in Gujrat and Sialkot to prepare for the monsoon season.
During the press conference, alongside Provincial Local Government Minister Zeeshan Rafique, Azma Bukhari also highlighted the Nigehban Ramadan Card program, which has already issued over 2.5 million cards and aims to extend support to approximately 4.2 million families. She emphasized that the Punjab Development Program is progressing rapidly, with nearly Rs500 billion allocated for sewerage infrastructure development throughout the province. The government has ensured transparency and cost-effectiveness by awarding all contracts through e-tendering, resulting in savings of Rs13 billion.
Reiterating the impact of global geopolitical tensions on Pakistan’s economy, Bukhari acknowledged the difficulty of increasing petrol prices but maintained that the government’s measured approach was necessary to balance economic realities with public welfare. She assured that the Chief Minister has taken strict measures to prevent petrol hoarding, ensuring fair distribution and availability across the province. The minister’s remarks reflect the government’s broader strategy to stabilize the economy while simultaneously advancing critical infrastructure projects that will benefit millions of residents in the long term.
