LAHORE: The Punjab government has decided to repair and upgrade the Lahore Metro Bus track and stations, which have been in poor condition, the project will cost billions of rupees and will also shift all 25 stations to solar energy.
According to official documents, Rs2.10 billion will be spent on the repair and renovation of 25 stations. Another Rs1.70 billion will be used to install solar power at all stations. In addition, Rs1.5 billion will be spent on restoring the track. The project also includes fixing pedestrian bridges, ticket booths, and polishing platforms.
Punjab Transport Minister said that NESPAK carried out a survey and prepared the cost estimates on the instructions of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz.
He said that the previous government ignored the metro bus project, but the current government is committed to improving public transport. He also said that in the future, all metro buses will be converted to electric buses.
In another provincial development, Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz chaired a cabinet meeting in Lahore where several major decisions were made.
The cabinet approved a reduction in electricity tariffs for provincial power companies, including Quaid-e-Azam Thermal Power and Punjab Thermal Power. The move will help reduce electricity bills by 30 to 40 percent.
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The cabinet also approved the Chief Minister Wheat Programme and the formation of Air Punjab, a private airline. CM Maryam Nawaz directed that steps be taken to launch Air Punjab within one year. She also ordered full safety gear for workers, especially those working at heights and in dangerous conditions like gutter cleaning.
She said, “Workers fall from buildings and die. The government cannot remain silent. We must provide proper safety kits.”
The cabinet also decided to set up charging stations in big cities soon. Approval was given for several other projects, including:
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Rs400 million grant for Punjab Journalists Housing Foundation
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Approval of the Autism School and Resource Centre Act
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Land transfer for Nawaz Sharif Medical City
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Ration cards for registered labourers
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1,100 interest-free e-taxis in Lahore
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New Child Protection Policy
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Rs100 billion special financing for flour mills and food grain license holders.
