CM vows integrated development

Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has said that an integrated development initiative in Lahore will result in improving the facilities for the citizens.

Inspecting the implementation of Lahore's first integrated development project in Gulberg Block 3, she vowed that every city would developed. The Lahore Development Authority (LDA) is working on the pilot project.

The chief minister reviewed LDA's Gulberg Sustainable Development Model Project and inspected the ongoing work.

Provincial Housing Minister Bilal Yasin and LDA Director General Tahir Farooq informed the CM during a briefing that a significant reduction in the cost and maintenance expenses would be attained through the integrated development project. Roads will be constructed and rehabilitated under the pilot project in Gulberg. Uniform green belts, footpaths and cycling tracks will be built.

The green belt will be below the road level for groundwater recharge. A water drainage system will also be built for rainwater.

The minister and official said solar lights and uniform signboards would be installed in the streets. All cables except those of electricity will be kept underground.

The LDA will also carry out sustainable remodeling of Sabzazar Main Boulevard in the second phase. Construction and rehabilitation of Johar Town G-1 market will also be carried out under the integrated development plan.

Sustainable development of the Thokar Niaz Baig entry point and Tollinton Market will also be carried out.

They said development was under way in the areas that had been suffering from dilapidation, decay and neglect for long.

The CM was informed that asphalt had been laid on the roads of Gulberg B-3 Block and a better rainwater drainage system would be built. Internet and other cables are being placed underground. The aim is to maintain a beautiful and spacious area.

The chief minister said, "The sustainable development pilot project will not only improve facilities in the city but also make life comfortable for the citizens."

Meanwhile, PML-N President Muhammad Nawaz Sharif and Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz met MPAs belonging to Nankana Sahib, Sheikhupura, Kasur, Okara and Pakpattan districts.

The PML-N president said on the occasion, "We are putting Pakistan on the path to progress and prosperity once again by improving its economy."

He said Pakistan was coming out of difficulties and his party had proved that it not only served the country but also provides relief to the people.

The assembly members said dormant departments had also been put to work and the people were witnessing a positive change.

Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz also issued a message on the International Day for the Prevention of Violent Extremism, declaring, "We strongly condemn all forms of violence, extremist behaviour and terrorism."

She said Pakistan had made countless sacrifices against extremism and terrorism.

The chief minister said, "I will discourage extremism and intolerance at all levels. I will not allow any extremist thought to flourish on Pakistani soil. We will continue to fight unitedly against extremist ideologies and terrorism."