LAHORE
— The Punjab Cabinet Standing Committee for Finance and Development held its 7th meeting, presided over by the Caretaker Chief Minister Mohsin Naqvi. Key decisions to financially support bereaved families and improve Punjab’s infrastructure were taken, reflecting the government’s dedication to ensuring the welfare and development of its citizens.
A major highlight of the gathering was the announcement of a special financial package for families of government employees who tragically lost their lives while in service. Underlining the gravity and urgency of the situation, an order was passed mandating the disbursement of relief amounts to the affected families within the next 10 days.
This initiative aims to provide immediate economic relief and stand in solidarity with families grappling with sudden loss. Infrastructure development took center stage with approvals for restoring the iconic gates of Lahore to their original glory.
The decision was widely lauded, symbolizing the region’s rich cultural heritage and history. In addition, funds were allocated for the much-anticipated up-gradation of the Lahore Zoo, a move likely to boost tourism and offer improved recreational avenues for locals.
Shifting the focus to sustainable energy, the committee granted in-principle approval for the solarization of agricultural tube wells throughout Punjab. This forward-thinking measure could drastically reduce energy consumption and costs for farmers in the long run.
Moreover, to bolster the region’s water and sanitation services, collaboration with the French Agency for Development was approved. The partnership seeks to revamp the Water Sanitation Agency in major cities like Faisalabad and Lahore, reflecting international cooperation in addressing local issues.
The committee also endorsed the inclusion of the flood protection sector’s third project into the annual development program. And to further enhance the state’s water conservation efforts, funds were released for the establishment of small dams under the Public Sector Development Programme.
Present at the meeting were Provincial Ministers SM Tanveer, Mansoor Qadir, and Aamir Mir, along with the Chief Secretary, Chairman of the Planning and Development Board, and the Additional Chief Secretary Home. Their collective decisions taken during the meeting have charted a clear path forward for Punjab’s growth and prosperity.
