Punjab Province

Lahore | ReNews Pakistan
The Punjab government and Pakistan Railways have taken a major step toward modernising the province’s railway system and improving public transport by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the launch of a fast train between Lahore and Rawalpindi, along with several other projects.
The agreement was signed between Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz and Federal Minister for Railways Muhammad Hanif Abbasi. Under the initiative, the country’s first fast train service will be introduced between Lahore and Rawalpindi, covering approximately 280 kilometres in just 2 hours and 15 minutes. The project involves the construction of a new railway track, with an estimated cost of Rs350 billion.
Alongside this flagship project, the railway network across Punjab will be expanded and upgraded. A total of 1,415 kilometres of rail infrastructure will be developed, covering 20 regions and eight major local routes. These include Shahdara to Narowal and Sialkot, Raiwind, Kasur, Pakpattan to Lodhran, Sheikhupura, Jaranwala to Shorkot, Lalamusa to Sargodha, Faisalabad to Shaheenabad, and the inter-provincial route from Kot Addu to Kashmore.
As part of the plan, modern Diesel Multiple Unit (DMU) trains will be deployed, along with the induction of new locomotives and upgraded passenger coaches to bring services in line with international standards.
According to Railways Minister Hanif Abbasi, the project is expected to benefit approximately 90 million passengers nationwide and marks a defining milestone for Pakistan Railways. He emphasised that, under the leadership of the Punjab Chief Minister, the railway system is being upgraded to meet global benchmarks.
He further stated that the Punjab government has committed Rs45 billion for the upgradation of nine local railway routes, aimed at reducing traffic congestion on roads and helping control smog.
Infrastructure improvements under the initiative include the renovation and beautification of Lahore Railway Station, development of international-standard parking facilities, and installation of advanced automated safety systems to minimise accidents and enhance operational efficiency.
Environmental sustainability is also a key component of the project, with plans to plant over 400,000 trees along railway tracks. Additionally, a 40-kilometre green corridor from Shahdara to Raiwind is being developed to create a modern, eco-friendly railway environment.
Officials believe the project will bring a transformative change not only in Punjab but across Pakistan, offering faster, safer, and more affordable travel to the public.

Kasur: [Sadaf Arshad District Coordinator ReNews Pakistan]
On the directions of Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz Sharif, a key meeting regarding the Punjab Development Program (PDP) was chaired by Deputy Commissioner Kasur, Muhammad Asif Raza. The meeting was attended by representatives of NESPAK, Chief Officers of Municipal Committees, DIO Kasur Nadir Ali, and officials from relevant departments.
During the meeting, a detailed review was conducted of ongoing development projects across the district, including their progress, quality of work, and adherence to timelines. It was highlighted in the briefing that, in line with the Chief Minister’s vision, development projects worth billions of rupees are currently underway in Phool Nagar, Kot Radha Kishan, Pattoki, Khudian Khas, and other areas.
These projects include improvement of sewerage networks, underground storm water drains, rehabilitation of sewerage lines, construction of disposal stations, and development of parks, along with other essential public facilities.
The Deputy Commissioner directed that all development schemes must be completed in a timely and transparent manner, warning that no negligence or delay in the utilization of funds will be tolerated.
He further emphasized strengthening the monitoring process through regular field visits to ensure quality standards. Officials were also instructed to maintain proper reporting and complete records of PDP schemes and their progress.
The Deputy Commissioner stated that the primary objective of the Punjab Development Program is to provide basic facilities to the public, and all projects must be completed within the stipulated time while keeping public interest at the forefront.
The meeting concluded with a commitment to utilize all available resources to ensure the timely completion of development projects in district Kasur.

Kasur: [Sadaf Arshad District Coordinator ReNews Pakistan]
Curb stone painting is actively underway on major roads in Kasur as part of an initiative to improve urban aesthetics and road safety.
Under the supervision of the district administration, curb stones along key roads are being painted with fresh colors, enhancing the overall appearance of the city while also aiding in better traffic guidance.
Officials stated that this initiative is part of a broader beautification plan aimed at improving civic infrastructure and providing a cleaner, more organized environment for the public.
The concerned teams have been directed to complete the work promptly while maintaining quality standards to ensure maximum benefit for citizens. The campaign is expected to continue across the city and will be extended to other areas as well.