LAHORE: The Punjab local government department received bids totalling Rs60 billion for 94 packages under the Punjab Development Programme (PDP).
Punjab Local Government Minister Zeeshan Rafique presided over the opening of the tenders for the Chief Minister’s PDP. The bids were unveiled in the presence of contractors and media representatives during a ceremony held on Wednesday. He, accompanied by Punjab Local Government Secretary Shakeel Ahmed Mian and Project Director Ahmer Kaifi, reviewed the bidding process for the construction schemes.
In his address at the ceremony, Rafique stated that transparent governance is the cornerstone of the Punjab government. He emphasised that, much like the Lahore Development Programme, the PDP will also be completely transparent. He noted that he did not receive any complaints from bidders, and confirmed that all contractors were given equal opportunities to participate.
“Maryam Nawaz initiated e-bidding as soon as she became the Punjab Chief Minister, thereby setting new standards in governance. The world recognises this model of transparent governance,” he added.
Rafique also mentioned that the sanitation issues in 52 cities would be permanently resolved. “The first phase includes cities from southern, central, and northern Punjab. No one had considered master planning for the past 25 years. Furthermore, under the PDP, 358 underground tanks will be constructed in cities for rainwater storage. Once the project is completed, no street will remain unpaved. To ensure durability, lining pipes, which can last for a hundred years, are being used,” he stated.
While talking to the media, he confirmed that the delimitation process for local government elections is underway under the Election Commission, and the elections will take place according to the schedule issued by the Election Commission.
During the event, Rafique personally met with bidders, who expressed their satisfaction with the transparency of the bidding process, stating they had never witnessed such an open procedure in their lives.
Copyright Business Recorder, 2026
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