Punjab Cabinet Approves Key Projects for Rawalpindi, Including Safe City Initiative
The Punjab cabinet convened its inaugural meeting in the garrison city, led by interim Chief Minister Mohsin Naqvi, to endorse various initiatives aimed at enhancing Rawalpindi’s infrastructure and services.
The approved projects include the Safe City project, the Kutchery Chowk Remodeling Project, and the restoration of three metro bus stations damaged during the May 9 incident.
Interim Chief Minister Naqvi expressed optimism that the implementation of the Safe City project would contribute to a reduction in crime rates within the garrison city.
Furthermore, the cabinet deliberated on healthcare developments, deciding to construct a general hospital and a TB hospital in Murree.
They also directed the Rawalpindi Development Authority (RDA) to ensure the Ring Road project meets high-quality standards.
Moreover, progress updates were also provided on the Daducha Dam and Leh Nullah Expressway projects.
The cabinet also resolved to include the nominee of the station commander and the president of the Rawalpindi Chamber of Commerce and Industry as members of the RDA governing body.
The Specialized Healthcare and Medical Education department proposed an increase in the estimated cost of the ‘Establishment of Hospital Management Information and Queue Management System (PACS)’ scheme in hospitals, suggesting an increase from Rs. 400 million to Rs. 1,699.459 million.
Besides, an additional funding of Rs. 1,299.459 million is anticipated through inter-sectoral re-appropriation.
The interim cabinet also sanctioned the appointment of presiding officers for district consumer courts in Bahawalnagar, Faisalabad, and Lahore, as stipulated under Section 26(2) of the Consumer Protection Act, 2006.
In addition, the cabinet endorsed the operation of a Cadet College in Khanpur, Rahimyar Khan, and the renovation and upgrade of the Central Library in Bahawalpur.
The decisions of the seventh session of the Cabinet Standing Committee on Legal Affairs and Privatization were also ratified.