Residential plots announced for journalists

LAHORE: In a move aimed at recognising the contributions of journalists, Chief Minister (CM) of Punjab Mohsin Naqvi has declared the allocation of residential plots for reporters, photographers, and cameramen.

The announcement, made during a ceremony at the CM Office, highlighted the government’s commitment to the welfare of the journalist community.

Addressing the gathering, CM Mohsin Naqvi disclosed that a significant step had been taken to address the long-standing issue of residential accommodations for journalists.

For the first time in the history of Punjab, a transparent balloting mechanism has been employed to distribute 3,300 residential plots among journalists.

Under the newly unveiled scheme, reporters will be granted 7-marla residential plots, while cameramen and photographers will receive 3-marla residential plots through a fair and transparent balloting process.

Ravi Urban Development Authority (RUDA) will play a pivotal role in informing the journalist community about the procedures for acquiring the plots.

CM Mohsin Naqvi emphasised that this initiative comes after extensive consultations to provide a long-term solution to the residential problems faced by journalists.

During his address, CM Mohsin Naqvi expressed his awareness of the challenges faced by journalists, many of whom lead a low-profile lifestyle. He stated, “Wherever I go, journalists express their desire for substantial measures for their welfare. Today, we have fulfilled our promise.”

The residential project for journalists encompasses 200 acres of land in a strategic phase of RUDA. A total of 2,300 seven-marla residential plots have been allocated for reporters, with an additional 1,000 three-marla residential plots earmarked for photographers and cameramen.

Notably, a 15 per cent quota has been reserved for journalists working in newsrooms.

To facilitate the application process, journalists can apply until January 28th, with the balloting scheduled to take place before February 8th.

CM Mohsin Naqvi acknowledged the overwhelming demand for plots and expressed intentions to explore options, such as having the Bank of Punjab provide loans on soft terms for journalists to build their houses.

Importantly, he clarified that journalists who have previously been granted plots will not be eligible for additional allocations.

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