Lahore: Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has directed the formulation of new by-laws to implement a uniform design for shopfronts across the province, as part of a broader urban development initiative.
Chairing a meeting on the Punjab Development Program (PDP), the chief minister approved the launch of development works in 189 cities under the multi-tiered initiative. The program will be carried out in collaboration with international partners including the World Bank (WB) and the Asian Development Bank (ADB).
According to official details, the PDP will be executed in phases. Under the WB’s Punjab Inclusive Cities Program (PICP), 15 cities will undergo infrastructure and civic upgrades, while ADB’s Project DREAMS-II will see development in four additional cities. Separately, development initiatives in 11 more cities will be prioritised under an ADB-backed effort. In total, 144 cities have already been included in the province’s Annual Development Program (ADP).
A Project Management Unit will also be established to oversee the implementation and ensure inter-departmental coordination. Chief Minister Nawaz instructed the relevant departments to work in sync with stakeholders to execute these plans effectively. She emphasised that all urban centres should reflect aesthetic and planning standards upon completion of the program.
Separately, Maryam Nawaz met with Punjab Assembly Speaker Malik Muhammad Ahmed to discuss the provincial budget, development priorities, and the overall political climate. She reaffirmed the government’s commitment to public welfare, inclusive growth, and transparent governance.
“The 2025–26 budget allocates record funds for education, healthcare, and development. We are not doing a favour by giving scholarships or laptops — we are recognising students’ talent,” she stated. The speaker lauded her efforts, saying she is continuing the PML-N’s legacy of development-focused governance.
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