Punjab PDWP Approves Eight Development Projects Worth Rs. 3.5 Billion

Lahore, October 27:,Ali Imran Chattha 

The Provincial Development Working Party (PDWP) of Punjab has approved eight major development schemes valued at Rs. 3.57 billion, aiming to boost progress in education, infrastructure, governance, and justice sectors.
The approval was granted during the 38th PDWP meeting, chaired by Dr. Naeem Rauf, Chairman of the Planning and Development (P&D) Board.
According to the details, the following schemes received approval:
1. Non-Formal Education Initiative (NFE BEACON):
A project to enhance education awareness through community outreach and networks.
2. Rehabilitation of Southern Bypass Bahawalpur–Hasilpur Road (Phase-I): A 24.66 km road project connecting Bahawalpur to the National Highway (N-5), with an estimated cost of Rs. 943.5 million.
3. Construction of Khairpur Tamewali–Maroot Road:
A 44 km new road in District Bahawalpur, estimated to cost Rs. 1.2 billion, to improve regional connectivity.

4. Improvement of Kotani Road to BMP Check Post Lakhani:
A 7.5 km metalled road including a 2,000 Rft bridge in Dera Ghazi Khan/Taunsa, costing Rs. 986.9 million.

5. Forensic Information Management System (Phase-II):Project includes creation of posts for enhanced data and crime analysis capacity.

6. Media Think Tank for Resilience & Counter-Narrative Initiative (MTRNI): Aimed at promoting media literacy and positive narratives; includes staffing and vehicle procurement.

7. AI-Based Litigation Management & Training System: A digital initiative to improve case management and judicial efficiency using artificial intelligence.

8. Construction of Lady Bar Rooms in Punjab:
With an allocation of Rs. 450 million, this scheme will improve working facilities for women lawyers across the province.
The meeting was attended by Chief Economist Mr. Masood Anwar, Members of the P&D Board, and senior government officials.
Dr. Naeem Rauf emphasized that these initiatives reflect the Punjab government’s commitment to inclusive development, modern governance, and digital innovation.