Plan set in motion to boost environmental efforts

Authorities allocate 1% of transport fund for plantation in twin cities

RAWALPINDI:

To enhance the greenery in the twin cities, authorities have allocated one per cent of the total cost of running 780 feeder buses for the metro bus service for urban plantations.

This decision emerged from a review meeting held at the Rawalpindi commissioner's office, chaired by Provincial Minister of Construction and Communications Malik Sohaib Bharat.

The meeting, attended by local parliamentarians and heads of relevant government institutions, focused on the pivotal role of transportation and road networks in sustaining a country's economic system. Minister Malik Sohaib Bharat emphasised prioritising the completion of main roads followed by link roads across constituencies.

He underscored the importance of activating filtration plants and tube wells where water sources are available, aligning with the Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz’s vision for a green Punjab.

Addressing environmental concerns, Minister Bharat directed that one per cent of project funds be dedicated to plantation activities in all schemes to combat pollution. Additionally, a systematic plan to eradicate encroachments from the city was urged, emphasising its diligent execution.

Rapid urbanisation has adversely affected the overall green cover of Rawalpindi and Islamabad.

The minister stressed the involvement of people's representatives in the progress of development schemes, ensuring their active participation. In a briefing, the Rawalpindi commissioner highlighted the addition of 314 schemes worth billions of rupees in the Rawalpindi district under the Annual Development Programme (ADP) for 2023-24, comprising ongoing and new schemes with substantial fund utilisation.

Regarding infrastructure projects, the Rawalpindi Ring Road's progress stands at 30 per cent, aiming for completion by this year. Upgrades include transforming Liaquat Bagh Library into an e-library and initiating 78 feeder bus services to complement the metro system, covering 80 per cent of the city and facilitating passenger transit to metro stations.

He said these initiatives reflect a concerted effort towards sustainable urban development, aligning with environmental conservation goals while advancing key infrastructural projects essential for the region's growth and connectivity.

Published in The Express Tribune, May 13^th, 2024.