Punjab Province

Lahore | ReNews Pakistan
A weekly review meeting of the Chief Minister Punjab Development Program was held under the chairmanship of Secretary Housing Punjab, Noor ul Amin Mengal, where the pace and quality of ongoing development projects across the province were thoroughly reviewed.
During the meeting, Noor-ul-Amin Mengal issued clear directives that all development projects must be completed before the deadline, and any delay will not be tolerated. He also emphasized the need to ensure strict implementation of safety SOPs at all construction sites to safeguard workers and staff.
Project Director Umar Farooq briefed the meeting on the progress of projects in various districts. Development works underway in 15 districts under the Housing Department were reviewed, along with a detailed analysis of district level performance.
According to the spokesperson, 47.6% of development work has been completed in Sargodha, 40.5% in Okara, and 37.5% in Jhang, while progress in other districts is also continuing at a steady pace.

Lahore | ReNews Pakistan
A high level meeting chaired by Pakistan Muslim League (N) President Muhammad Nawaz Sharif and Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif reviewed tourism, infrastructure, and development projects in Murree and Kotli Sattian. The meeting granted in principle approval for Punjab’s first sky glass bridge project in Kotli Sattian, aimed at boosting tourism and transforming the area into a modern tourist destination.
During the meeting, it was decided to hire international experts to address the increasing risk of landslides in Murree, while immediate measures were directed to counter the mid flow downhill effect. Rehabilitation and relief meadures were also approved for affected areas including Chatta Mor, Darya Gali, Bansera Gali, and surrounding area.
Additionally, three new hospitality zones will be established in Murree at Shawala, Sozo, and Brorri, where five star standard hotels will be developed in collaboration with the private sector. A specialized team of experts will be formed for Murree’s rehabilitation, and authorities were instructed to promptly remove debris from encroachments.
The meeting also approved the expansion of key roads, including Murree Reach Road, while setting a one-month target to begin construction of the glass train project.
Projects such as Angoori Road Park, MIT Park, and Ariari Park were also reviewed.
To promote tourism, approval was given for the establishment of a zoological garden, eco zone, bridge crossing, and a modern conference room in Bansera Gali. Plans were also approved for wildlife conservation facilities including a bear house, tiger house, and bird aviary. Furthermore, a state-of-the-art glamping pod village and a paragliding club will be set up at Chiyurahal.
The meeting also discussed the Kotli Sattian chairlift project, Punjab House, and forest rest houses. It was directed that the feasibility report for a bulk water supply scheme from the Jhelum River be completed by April 30. The successful implementation of rainwater harvesting systems in 1,876 homes was also highlighted.
Moreover, in principle approval was granted for establishing Punjab’s first Facility Management Unit, which will oversee construction, maintenance, and administrative affairs of government buildings across the province.

Lahore: [Re News Pakistan]
Former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif has expressed serious reservations over the ongoing restoration project of Neela Gumbad, questioning the quality of work and directing that the project be halted. During his recent visit, he rejected the newly installed tiles at the site.
According to sources, Nawaz Sharif specifically objected to the use of glazed tiles, calling it inconsistent with the historical character of Neela Gumbad. He stated that the monument’s true identity is linked to its original matte finish tiles, which must be preserved at all costs.
Reports indicate that the newly used tiles differ from the original ones in design, structure, and thickness. The clear contrast between the old and new tiles has further intensified concerns. Technical flaws in the restoration process and inconsistencies in design patterns have also been pointed out.
Sources added that the project had been approved by the Walled City of Lahore Authority, which has now come under scrutiny at higher levels.
Nawaz Sharif has directed that the restoration of Neela Gumbad must strictly follow its original historical form. He also ordered the formation of an empowered committee comprising renowned architects and experts to oversee the process. He made it clear that unilateral decisions in such matters will not be acceptable.
It is pertinent to mention that Nawaz Sharif serves as the patron in chief of the Lahore Authority for Heritage Revival (LAHR), a government body established by the Government of Punjab in 2025 to oversee the restoration and preservation of Lahore’s historical and cultural heritage.