LAHORE: The Punjab government has established committees, led by the respective deputy commissioners, to oversee safety at construction sites under the Punjab Development Programme (PDP).
These committees will also include officials from the Punjab Local Government Department. This announcement was made during a review meeting of the PDP, chaired by Punjab Local Government Minister Zeeshan Rafique on Thursday. Punjab Local Government Secretary Shakeel Ahmed Mian and Special Secretary Asia Gul attended the meeting.
At the same time, PDP Project Director Brigadier Asad Mahmood (R) provided an update on the progress made so far in 46 cities. During the meeting, the Minister emphasised the importance of strictly enforcing the safety guidelines for excavation sites.
He noted that construction has begun on stormwater drainage systems and underground storage tanks, with plans to build 67 underground tanks as part of the PDP. Additionally, 33,160 manhole covers will be installed across various cities.
The Minister also announced that 56 new disposal stations will be constructed while the existing 61 stations will undergo rehabilitation. The solarisation of all disposal stations is also included in the PDP. He added that wastewater treatment plants being developed will have the capacity to filter 323 million gallons of water daily.
Rafique expressed satisfaction that transparent tendering of development projects for 46 cities has resulted in savings of Rs 12 billion.
He mentioned that contracts have been awarded for the purchase of 52 suction machines and 52 jetting machines, along with 100 dewatering sets and 82 de-silting machines. “The PDP is a comprehensive solution to the longstanding issues faced by cities,” he assured.
Copyright Business Recorder, 2026