The Punjab government has allocated 86 electric buses for Faisalabad Urban Transport, aiming to provide quality public transport services in the city.
As part of this initiative, 33 buses are expected to be delivered soon and will operate on six different routes.
This project is separate from the planned metro bus service for the city.
Faisalabad Development Authority (FDA) Director General Muhammad Asif Chaudhry, shared these developments while addressing representatives from the business community and real estate sector at the Faisalabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
He highlighted FDA's ongoing projects, jurisdiction, and civic issues impacting the city.
Chaudhry informed attendees that while the Faisalabad Master Plan case is currently under court proceedings, the Peri-Urban Structure Plan is being implemented.
Under this plan, the city has been zoned to regulate urban development, and environmental impact assessments have been made mandatory for new constructions and housing colonies. The zoning initiative has successfully reduced brownfield areas by 30,000 acres.
Additionally, outline development plans for 125 cities, including Faisalabad, have been prepared at the provincial level.
Clarifying FDA's role, Chaudhry stated that the authority is responsible for executing development schemes under the deposit work mechanism before handing them over to the Municipal Corporation or other relevant bodies.
However, maintenance and repair of these projects do not fall under FDA's jurisdiction.
He also discussed major infrastructure projects, including the expansion and reconstruction of key city roads.
Notably, Sheikhupura Road, from Nishatabad Bridge to Gatwala, is set to be developed into a state-of-the-art two-way highway featuring rainwater drainage systems and footpaths.
Providing an update on FDA City's progress, Chaudhry revealed that 14 out of 18 electricity feeders have been completed. The construction of the DPS campus building is also underway.
Additionally, the Central Park project within FDA City will include a scenic lake, the Mianwali Forest, and various recreational facilities.
On the topic of urban planning, he detailed the ongoing digitization of FDA records and the Punjab government's efforts to establish a legal framework for regularizing old, unapproved housing schemes.
During the session, Faisalabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry (FCCI) President Rehan Nasim Bharara welcomed Chaudhry and raised concerns about civic challenges in the city.
He emphasised the urgent need for increased financial resources to address these issues effectively.
In conclusion, FCCI Senior Vice President Qaiser Shamshad Gachha extended his gratitude to the guests, while President Bharara presented a shield to Chaudhry as part of the chamber's Golden Jubilee celebrations.
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