Maryam orders comprehensive development of Rawalpindi division

LAHORE: Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz has ordered for comprehensive development and beautification of the entire Rawalpindi Division, with a special focus on cleanliness, park improvements and removal of encroachments.

Under her directives, a large-scale operation was conducted to improve Murree Road, clear illegal bus stands — including those in Pir Wadhai and Faizabad — and eliminate drug peddlers from the area.

To review progress, Senior Provincial Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb chaired a three-hour meeting at the commissioner’s office in Rawalpindi. The minister instructed authorities to complete the feasibility report for the Nullah Lai project within three months and ensure completion of the Rawalpindi Ring Road project by December.

The meeting also assessed the implementation of the ‘Suthra Punjab’ initiative across Rawalpindi Division. The chief minister commended the administration and police for clearing the Pir Wadhai bus stand within three days and instructed for removal of encroachments and illegal bus stands in Faizabad to facilitate public convenience. Additionally, she set a deadline for beautification and uplift of Murree Road by next Friday.

Later, Marriyum Aurangzeb, along with officials, visited hospitals in Rawalpindi, as well as key commercial areas like Raja Bazaar, Fawara Chowk, and Saddar. She inspected anti-encroachment measures and reviewed medical facilities to ensure improved healthcare services.

Separately, CM Maryam Nawaz granted in-principle approval for the establishment of ‘Sahulat-on-the-Go Bazaars’, a first-of-its-kind initiative in the province. The project aims to provide essential food items and daily necessities through organised roadside markets, ensuring convenience and affordability for the public.

Meanwhile, CM Maryam Nawaz praised PMLN President Nawaz Sharif, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, and his team for their historic reduction in electricity prices, calling it a significant relief for people. “We welcome this landmark decision by Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif,” she stated, adding that history had repeatedly shown how Nawaz Sharif’s leadership had guided Pakistan out of crises and delivered tangible relief to the public.

Highlighting the impact of the decision, she termed the reduction in electricity rates — Rs7.41 per unit for domestic consumers and Rs7.59 per unit for industries — as a major economic relief for citizens grappling with inflation. She described it as a valuable gift to the nation on the joyous occasion of Eidul-Fitr.

Praising the public-friendly and visionary leadership of PM Shehbaz Sharif, the CM expressed confidence that the decision would serve as a milestone in the growth of Pakistan’s economy and industries. She reaffirmed PMLN’s commitment to providing relief to people and steering Pakistan towards development, adding that Shehbaz Sharif is actively advancing the vision of Nawaz Sharif.