Punjab CM discusses development plans with MPAs

Announces two new universities for Bhakkar, Mianwali

LAHORE: Punjab Chief Minister (CM) Sardar Usman Buzdar has said that funds have been allocated from the new budget for the establishment of two universities in the province. He said this during a detailed meeting with members of the Punjab Assembly belonging to Sahiwal and Sargodha divisions at the CM’s office on Wednesday.

The CM held a lengthy discussion about public welfare schemes and solutions to public problems while the assembly members presented various proposals for the solution of those problems.

He issued immediate instructions for the solutions of problems faced by the people and announced that the two new universities will be set up in Bhakkar and Mianwali. “I want every city of the province to be equally developed and a university will be established in each district where there is no university for students.”

The CM added that more funds have been allocated for the development of backward areas. He announced that a mother and child hospital will be established in Mianwali while the development of Sargodha and Bhakkar has been included in the city development programme of the World Bank.

Meanwhile, shortage of doctors will be fulfilled at THQ and DHQ hospitals of remote districts. The CM also announced a new programme for improving the quality of civic facilities, adding that around Rs22 billion have been allocated for it.

The sewerage and cleanliness systems, along with the provision of clean drinking water, will be improved in the cities through this programme and dysfunctional water supply schemes will also be restored to facilitate the people.

The CM also sought a report on the damages caused to lands due to the erosion of the river in Bhakkar district and directed the Irrigation Department to take necessary remedial measures in this regard.

He further said that new buses will be provided soon to Mianwali for improving the transport system adding that the scope of Rescue 1122 is being devolved to grassroots level. “Necessary equipment and staff will be provided to them on a priority basis.”

He directed to take emergent steps for protecting the people of adjoining localities of Langarwala Pul from possible flooding and further directed to take indiscriminate action against the people involved in water theft. “Action should be taken against the people involved in water theft by forming district level committees.”

He also sought reports on pending cases of grain and vegetable markets and reports on official residences in the districts. “Comprehensive proposals should be submitted on the construction of small residences and their best utilisation.” He added that a 270 kilometre long rural road will be constructed in both divisions under the Naya Pakistan-Manzilen Asan program.

The CM concluded that consultations and meetings with assembly members will continue and implementation on their proposals will be ensured as well.

Published in The Express Tribune, June 20^th, 2019.