Work on four mega projects halted

The Punjab government and the district administration have halted four public welfare and tourism projects in the Rawalpindi district.

Sources said that instructions have been issued to refund Rs250 million released for these projects to the provincial government.

These projects were a modern food street in Rawalpindi, the repair of seven temples in old Rawalpindi including the refurbishment and restoration of the historic Sujhan Singh building, the construction of a tourist cafeteria and a walking street in Bhabra Bazaar.

Initial funds for all projects were released after the completion project concept (PC-1).

Rawalpindi's seven historical temples have become haunted houses. Different groups have encroached upon the land of several temples and they were permanently locked.

After the release of funds, the cleaning of temples had been completed but now work on their repair and refurbishment has been halted.

A Turkish company and the Archaeological Department had expressed interest and collaboration in refurbishing the Haveli Sujan Singh but it has been cancelled now.