ISLAMABAD (PEN) : The Punjab government has unveiled a comprehensive development initiative aimed at overhauling the sewage and drainage systems in the province’s major cities. In a special meeting chaired by Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, officials reviewed the ongoing infrastructure projects, including those under the WATSAN framework, and discussed plans to address the growing urban challenges.
The Chief Minister gave the green light for a groundbreaking project to modernize the sewage and drainage infrastructure, with a focus on 189 cities across Punjab that have populations exceeding 100,000. This ambitious plan will encompass the construction of new sewage and water drainage systems, rainwater disposal solutions, street paving, and other essential development works, marking a significant step forward for urban planning in the region.
For the first time in the province’s history, the government will establish sewage bypasses and disposal stations in cities. In addition, the project includes the construction of storage tanks designed to collect and store rainwater, which will then be repurposed for irrigation and other uses. This initiative not only aims to enhance the city’s infrastructure but also seeks to address water scarcity issues by making better use of natural resources.
The meeting also highlighted plans to ensure the safe transportation of clean water by establishing appropriate distances for sewage and water supply pipelines, safeguarding both water quality and public health.
In another key development, the Punjab government has committed to the construction and renovation of roads within each provincial constituency, with up to 30 kilometers of roads planned for each area.
Further, the Chief Minister approved a proposal to establish model villages across Punjab, directing the immediate implementation of the Punjab Development Program. These villages will serve as exemplars of modern infrastructure and sustainable development.
In her remarks, Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz emphasized that the Clean Punjab Program will bring significant benefits to the province’s residents. The initiative aims to create a lasting, safe sewage system that will not only improve the quality of life but also protect infrastructure, ensuring that roads remain durable and free from damage caused by inadequate drainage systems. This ambitious plan reflects the government’s commitment to long-term development and the well-being of Punjab’s citizens.
