Development projects worth Rs9.914 billion approved for Punjab

LAHORE: The 46th meeting of the Provincial Development Working Party (PDWP) convened under the dynamic leadership of P&D Board Chairman Iftikhar Ali Sahoo, marking a pivotal moment as five key development schemes were greenlit across various sectors, totalling an estimated cost of Rs9.914 billion.

Chaired by Iftikhar Ali Sahoo, the meeting witnessed the approval of strategic projects encompassing regional planning, energy, governance, and public infrastructure. The sanctioned schemes reflect a commitment to bolstering the province’s progress and addressing crucial areas of development.

The approved projects include regional planning in Punjab, allocated a budget of Rs477.647 million, signalling a dedicated effort towards shaping the province’s future landscape.

Additionally, the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Programme (PGDP, DLI-5) (revised) secured approval with a substantial budget of Rs3.445 billion, emphasising the province’s commitment to sustainable and efficient energy practices.

Furthermore, the meeting endorsed the revamping of data centre services with the facility of high availability and backup of PFSA (revised), allocating Rs785.602 million for the enhancement of data management infrastructure.

In a move towards enhancing public facilities, the PDWP gave the green light to the rehabilitation and renovation of the LG&CD building and H-Block (now Ravi Block) in Punjab Civil Secretariat, Lahore, alongside parking arrangements at the site of the existing building of the health department, with a budget of Rs657.776 million.

Another notable approval was granted for the construction of 313 residences for police officers and officials (BS 1–20) at Lahore (Phase II), with an allocated budget of Rs4.548 billion.

This initiative underscores the commitment to providing adequate housing for law enforcement personnel, ensuring their well-being, and demonstrating dedication to public service.

In a parallel development, a significant meeting of the Public Financial Management Reform Steering Committee (PFMRC) was convened under the chairmanship of Provincial Minister for Planning and Development Bilal Afzal at the Finance Department.

The meeting, attended by key officials from various departments, delved into discussions about proposals to augment government revenue.

Secretary Punjab Board of Revenue, Secretary P&D, Head of PFMU, and officers from PITB, Punjab Procurement Regulatory Authority, Board of Revenue, and Finance Department actively participated in the session.

The focus of the meeting was on reviewing the progress and implementation of the World Bank-funded Punjab Resource Improvement and Digital Effectiveness (PRIDE) programme, showcasing the province’s dedication to adopting modern financial practices for optimal governance.

These developments mark a significant stride in the province’s journey towards sustainable and inclusive growth, aligning with the broader vision of progress and development set forth by the leadership.

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