Multi-billion rupee Murree development package approved
A multi-billion-rupee development package – described as the largest in Murree’s history – receives approval at a special meeting chaired by Pakistan Muslim League (N) President Muhammad Nawaz Sharif and Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz. The meeting, held at Government House Murree, reviews the Murree Development Plan. Senior Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb briefs participants on ongoing and proposed projects. It is decided to develop Kotli Sattian as Punjab’s newest and most modern tourism hub. The chief minister approves 14 tourism schemes for the area, along with a new chairlift project.
An eco-friendly glamping pod village and resort is planned, and Punjab’s first modern paragliding centre is set up in Kotli Sattian. A sky glass bridge for tourists is also included in the plan. The meeting agrees to extend the Murree Glass Train project from Islamabad Airport to Muzaffarabad. Bidding for the monorail component opens in March. The train operates on a 40-kilometre route from Lake View Park to the Murree Bus Stand. Participants decide to establish a separate department for the preservation of Murree’s historical and cultural buildings and restore heritage structures according to their original design. Under a public-private partnership, a Murree hotel complex is planned at a designated location. Illegal three-storey buildings affecting the natural landscape, including those on Mall Road, Hall Road and Imtiaz Shaheed Road, are removed. The space is converted into parks and green areas. Road expansion is also carried out in Upper Jhika Gali after the removal of such structures.
The first phase of the rainwater harvesting project in Murree is completed successfully, benefiting residents through improved water supply. In the second phase, 3,000 homes will benefit. The chief minister directs authorities to initiate similar measures in Rawalpindi. Upgradation and repair work on the Patriata chairlift continues, while a 50-bed hospital is established in Bhurban. Restoration of 23 buildings and 76 shops on Mall Road is completed. Construction and rehabilitation of 70 roads in Murree and adjoining areas is completed, while 120 roads are under development in the second phase.
A principled decision is taken to upgrade Rawalpindi, Murree and Kashmir Road into state-of-the-art highways. The chief minister commends Deputy Commissioner Zaher Shirazi and his team for their performance during recent snowfall. Modern machinery, including mechanical snow sweepers and heavy bulldozers, is used to clear roads promptly, ensuring minimal disruption for residents and tourists. Officials state that improved drainage arrangements after the establishment of WASA in Murree bring relief to citizens, while a dedicated tourist force remains active to facilitate visitors