Punjab approves Rs61bn model village plan for 485 villages

Lahore: The Punjab government has included the Model Village Project in the next financial year’s budget, aiming to upgrade 485 villages across the province at an estimated cost of Rs. 61.12 billion. The project will be completed through the Local Government Department, while Provincial Minister Zeeshan Rafique has been assigned responsibility for fast implementation. Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has directed that at least 40 villages be completed on priority. The plan includes street and drain cleaning, water supply lines, sanitation and drainage systems, streetlights, sports facilities for children, and a proper cleanliness mechanism. Tendering for 463 villages has been completed, while 22 villages will be retendered. Can this project transform rural living standards in Punjab?