DLP Report
PESHAWAR
Adviser to the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government on Local Government, Communications and Works Asif Rafiq has directed the Peshawar Development Authority (PDA) to prepare a comprehensive plan to beautify the provincial capital, promote greenery and improve public facilities.
He said flower belts should be established from the motorway to various entry points, major roads and prominent locations across the city to transform Peshawar into a city of flowers. He also proposed the installation of dancing fountains in public parks.
The directives were issued on Thursday during a detailed briefing by PDA officials on the authority’s overall performance, ongoing development projects and future plans, said a handout.
Officials informed the adviser that several projects were being considered to improve the city’s infrastructure and public facilities. These include a proposed 1,000-bed hospital on 150 kanals of land near the Peshawar Motorway.
A four-storey extension at Lady Reading Hospital is also under consideration. The project’s PC-I has been approved, while PC-II has been forwarded to the health department, officials said.
The briefing also covered the master plan for the Southern Expressway and the approximately 45-kilometre Outer Peshawar Ring Road. Officials said a comprehensive beautification plan was also being prepared to improve public spaces and the urban environment in different parts of the city.
Mr Rafiq directed the authorities to select flowering plants and trees suited to local climatic conditions to enhance the appearance of major roads, entry points and public places. He stressed that plantation, flower belts and improvements to public parks should be incorporated into the city’s development planning.
He also directed the PDA to complete all necessary arrangements to make the missing link of the Ring Road, starting from Warsak Road, operational within 90 days.
The adviser said completion of the link road could help ease traffic congestion and reduce commuting difficulties for residents.
He emphasised that urban development projects should prioritise public needs, smooth traffic flow, environmental improvement and better civic facilities to help transform Peshawar into a greener, more attractive and modern urban centre.
