Lahore: The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has agreed to partly finance infrastructure and civic projects in four cities – Sargodha, Muzaffargarh, Rahim Yar Khan, and Bahawalpur – of the Punjab province, reported a news source yesterday. The international lender will provide USD 300 million to the provincial government for its second phase of the ambitious Punjab Intermediate Cities Improvement Investment Programme.
At least USD 50 million will be borne by the provincial government. It is pertinent to mention here that development projects were carried out in Sialkot and Sahiwal in the first phase.
Senior Punjab Minister Abdul Aleem Khan, who is overseeing the programme, has warned the Local Government and Community Development Department against misuse of funds and ordered concerned officials to strictly follow rules and regulations.
He said the government would ensure transparency, cleanliness and minimal wastage, adding that utmost efforts would be made so that the projects get completed in due time.
The Punjab Intermediate Cities Improvement Investment Programme will cover water and sanitation facilities, solid-waste management and other civic amenities.
