FAISALABAD: Punjab Chief Minister (CM) Maryam Nawaz Sharif announced development projects for Faisalabad, including a metrobus service and electric buses. She also made an unannounced visit to Kamoke in Gujranwala, where she closed a petrol pump for providing less fuel than shown and checked on cleanliness efforts.
According to the details, at the Laptop and Talent Scholarship Phase II event at GC University Faisalabad, Ms. Nawaz shared that a metrobus service will start in Faisalabad next year, along with green electric buses. She said a development plan, similar to Lahore’s, would be applied to Faisalabad and nearby cities and villages, turning them into model communities.
She spoke about the country’s recent success against an enemy, crediting unity among leaders, the armed forces, and the people. “We faced a strong enemy, but our forces fought well, and the nation stood united,” she said. “This victory secured a better future for our country.”
ALSO READ | Federal Budget 2025-26: Govt considers tax relief on imported vehicles
She honored those who sacrificed for the nation’s defense and noted that Pakistan’s JF-17 Thunder jets brought down advanced jets like the Rafale. She also mentioned Nawaz Sharif’s decision to conduct nuclear tests in 1998 despite global pressure.
In Kamoke, Ms. Nawaz inspected various areas and ordered the closure of a petrol pump caught giving less fuel. She visited fuel stations, GT Road Kamoke, service roads, Tiba Muhammad Nagar, the Kasoki Road underpass, and nearby areas under the Suthra Punjab (Clean Punjab) campaign. She was unhappy with the sanitation and ordered daily waste collection and action against those breaking rules.
“No garbage piles will be allowed anywhere,” she said, asking for public support. With the monsoon season nearing, she told officials to clean drains and fix open or broken sewer covers.
ALSO READ | How to stay safe during the heatwave in Pakistan, step-by-step guide
She also ordered the renovation, painting, and lighting of the Kasoki Road underpass for safety. Assistant Commissioner Kamoke Maham Wahid and local officials were instructed to clear all encroachments.
Earlier, Pakistan and Japan signed an agreement in Islamabad today to install 8,000 smart water meters in Faisalabad to improve the water supply.
Dr. Kazim Niaz, Secretary of the Ministry of Economic Affairs, and Akamatsu Shuichi, Japan’s Ambassador to Pakistan, signed the agreement for their governments.
Under the deal, Japan will provide $3.5 million through JICA as part of its Economic and Social Development Program.
The 8,000 smart water meters in Faisalabad will help improve water usage and distribution, support better demand management, conserve water resources, and ensure financial stability for WASA Faisalabad.
