Lahore: The Punjab government has started development schemes in 51 cities under the Punjab Development Program (PDP) as part of the “Maryam Nawaz Sohana Punjab Program.” According to officials, the Local Government Department has been assigned responsibility for 52 cities, while the feasibility of the Kharian project has been handed over to the Irrigation Department. During a meeting chaired by Local Government Minister Zeeshan Rafique, authorities confirmed that work orders for the first phase have already been issued. The program includes the construction of 324 roadside and 34 underground water storage tanks aimed at controlling urban flooding and improving groundwater recharge. These tanks are expected to store millions of gallons of rainwater for reuse. Officials added that 181 kilometres of drainage systems, 3,500 kilometres of sewer lines, and around 2,600 kilometres of roads and streets will also be developed. The minister directed departments to complete key works before the monsoon season and ensure safety audits at project sites.
