Lahore: Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has approved the Chief Minister Cities Development Programme, a massive PKR 150 billion initiative aimed at improving municipal services in 110 cities across the province. The project is set to benefit 6.5 million people in small cities and 12 million in larger cities, focusing on long-term urban infrastructure needs.
In the first phase, water supply and sanitation facilities will be upgraded in 20 cities, while data collection for similar improvements has already been completed in 59 more cities. The programme has been designed to cater to urban development requirements for the next 25 years.
A key feature of the plan is the introduction of a bypass drainage system around small cities, eliminating the need for sewerage pipelines within towns. Additionally, new housing settlements will be connected to this system to ensure sustainable wastewater management.
To enhance water storage, at least one storage tank will be built for every 100,000 residents, with additional tanks added in proportion to larger populations. A rainwater drainage system will also be integrated, while wastewater treatment plants will be installed, and pump stations will be transitioned to solar power. The programme further includes the development of 6,642 green spaces across Punjab’s cities.
Punjab Local Government Minister Zeeshan Rafiq chaired a meeting on Wednesday to review the programme’s progress, alongside Punjab Local Government Secretary Shakeel Ahmed and Special Secretary Development Asia Gul. Punjab Municipal Development Fund Company (PMDFC) Managing Director Syed Zahid Aziz briefed officials on the project.
During the meeting, the minister emphasized the need for effective cost estimation and directed that no sewerage pipeline should be less than 12 inches in diameter. He also instructed PMDFC to coordinate closely with district and tehsil administrations to expedite the project and ensure timely implementation.
With this initiative, the Punjab government aims to modernize urban infrastructure, enhance sustainability, and improve living conditions for millions across the province.
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