The Punjab government has decided to launch 27 solar-powered electric buses in Lahore by the end of this month, marking a significant step towards cleaner and more sustainable public transport.
These buses are part of the provincial government’s ongoing commitment to reduce air pollution and promote green energy solutions.
The decision was taken during a high-level review meeting of the Punjab government’s development plans, chaired by provincial minister Maryam Aurangzeb, in the presence of chief minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif. The Chief Minister had earlier ordered that 620 green buses be deployed in major cities of Punjab in the near future.
Apart from the transportation initiative, the meeting also took several key decisions, including the distribution of Ramazan Nigahban package cards to eligible people, with the aim of providing financial aid during the holy month.
The meeting, which reviewed the performance of 27 ministries and departments, also assessed the progress of ongoing development plans and new projects.
These included assessments from the ministries of Transport, Mining, Fisheries, Environment, Forests, Wildlife, Labour, Livestock, Auqaf and Commodity Management, among others.
Key updates from the meeting included the progress of 15 smart police stations, which will be completed by February 19, and approval of Rs 42 million in additional funds for the Kala Shah Kaku Judicial Academy.
Additionally, Rs 500 crore has been proposed for development of 261 tonnes of iron ore reserves.
The meeting also discussed the establishment of shelter homes in Rawalpindi and Sargodha as per the instructions of the Chief Minister as well as the expedited construction of a Model Children’s Home in Attock.
In line with the Chief Minister’s directives, the Minority Fund has been doubled to support the development of non-Muslim communities, and efforts to restore historic churches are progressing rapidly.
In her speech, Minister Maryam Aurangzeb directed that mapping of a 1,000-acre shrimp farming project be completed and efforts be intensified to protect Chhanga Manga forests and expedite tree plantation projects.
He also called for quick completion of the feasibility study for a model fish market in Lahore.
Aurangzeb also highlighted the establishment of a state-of-the-art Climate Observatory in Thokar Niaz Baig area of Lahore, which is expected to significantly reduce air pollution in the city.
He further emphasized the need to expedite the establishment of health and safety facilities for workers in Faisalabad along with the construction of hostels and 165 nurseries across Punjab for working women.
The meeting was informed about the rapid improvement of Jhang Veterinary College and Cholistan Veterinary University.
A key objective was to provide mobile veterinary services in southern Punjab, with the aim of bringing services directly to farmers’ doorsteps.
Minister Maryam Aurangzeb emphasized that the performance of officials will be closely monitored and the speed, quality and governance of ongoing projects will not be compromised.
The meeting, which included presentations by Planning and Development Chairman Nabeel Ahmed Awan, Secretary Asif Tufail and several department secretaries, underlined the government’s commitment to sustainable development and social welfare initiatives for the people of Punjab.
