LAHORE: Punjab Local Government Minister Zeeshan Rafique has said that Rs 13 billion has been saved in 51 cities through transparent tendering overseen by the Punjab Local Government Department.
He said this during a review meeting was held on Saturday which included Special Secretary (Development) Asia Gul and Project Director Ahmer Sohail Kaifi.
The Minister stated that the installation of reinforced concrete pipe (RCC pipe) plants has begun in five cities under the Punjab Development Programme (PDP).
“Following the instructions of Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, only lined pipes that have a lifespan of 100 years will be utilised in all PDP projects,” he emphasised. The initial plants are being set up in Wazirabad, Sahiwal/Sargodha, Kamalia, Lodhran, and Ferozewala, with plans for additional plants to ensure a reliable supply line.
The Minster highlighted that the Punjab Development Programme is a significant initiative of the Maryam Nawaz government. He noted that never before have so many projects been launched simultaneously across various cities.
As part of the first phase, 32 roadside underground storage tanks are being constructed, and excavation has commenced for an additional 292 underground water tanks. Once completed, a total of 324 storage tanks will help manage urban flooding more effectively.
During the meeting, the Minister received updates on projects in Hazro, Burewala, Bhera, Silanwali, Alipur Chatha, Narowal, Sangla Hill, Hasilpur, Phalia, Wazirabad, and Mian Channu.
He was informed that the construction of underground tanks in Chichawatni, Muridke, T.T. Singh, Sahiwal, Pindi Bhattian, Sambrial, and Daska is nearing completion, and a double shift has been implemented to expedite the process.
The Minister assured that solid safety measures have been established at excavation sites and instructed contractors to strive for the completion of work before the monsoon season.
He articulated a vision of not just draining rainwater but storing it, thus fostering a new culture of water conservation in Punjab. “In the coming days, progress on other schemes will also be visible,” he promised.
Copyright Business Recorder, 2026
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