Lahore | ReNews Pakistan
A delegation of the World Bank, led by its President Ajay Banga, met Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif in Lahore and conveyed continued financial and technical cooperation for housing schemes, municipal services and public infrastructure projects across the province.
During the meeting, both sides reviewed progress on ongoing programmes supported by the international lender and discussed expanding collaboration in sectors linked to residential construction, neighbourhood upgrading, waste management systems, and the provision of basic facilities in urban and semi-urban areas.
Special attention was given to the province’s flagship low-cost housing initiative, Apni Chhat, Apna Ghar, which aims to provide affordable homes and secure land tenure for low- and middle-income families. Officials highlighted the need for structured planning, improved utilities, and organized settlement layouts to accommodate growing populations.
The delegation also examined improvements in public health and education infrastructure, including the construction and rehabilitation of schools, hospitals, and service centres, alongside the Suthra Punjab programme focused on sanitation, solid waste handling and cleaner city environments.
Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz said that partnerships with development institutions are helping the province strengthen its civic framework, modernise public facilities and create better living conditions for residents. She emphasized that planned land use, reliable services and accessible housing remain central to Punjab’s urban strategy.
The World Bank representatives acknowledged the pace of ongoing works and expressed readiness to continue supporting projects that enhance residential planning, municipal efficiency and long-term city management.
The meeting concluded with agreement to maintain close coordination to accelerate implementation of existing schemes and identify new areas for cooperation in housing and public infrastructure development.

Lahore | ReNews Pakistan
In the wake of the Islamabad incident, security in Lahore has been placed on high alert, with authorities implementing enhanced measures to safeguard sensitive and public areas across the city. Law enforcement agencies have intensified monitoring in urban neighborhoods, religious sites, and commercial centers to quickly respond to any potential threats.
CCPO Lahore Bilal Siddiq Kaimana stated that additional personnel have been deployed at imambargahs, mosques, and other places of worship. Security has also been strengthened at entry and exit points, parking areas, and surrounding streets, with special measures in place during religious gatherings and public events.
Patrols have been increased at key public spaces, parks, markets, and shopping centers. Additional teams have been assigned to manage crowds and provide rapid response in high-density areas, ensuring that urban activities continue safely.
Officials said surveillance at Lahore’s entry and exit routes has been intensified, with suspicious vehicles and individuals being checked. The Safe City camera network and control room operations are monitoring urban movement in real time.
Authorities emphasized that protecting urban infrastructure, public spaces, and community areas is the top priority. The enhanced security measures aim to ensure the safety of residents and businesses while enabling immediate action in the event of any emergency.

Lahore | ReNews Pakistan
The newly appointed Inspector General of Police Punjab, Rao Abdul Karim, has issued directives to ensure strict compliance with the Basant Festival safety code. He emphasized that only registered kite sellers will be permitted to sell approved kites and string. These instructions form part of broader measures aimed at ensuring public safety and maintaining order during the three day Basant Festival, scheduled to be held from 6 to 8 February 2026.
Under provincial regulations, kite flying is permitted only within designated areas and on specified dates. All kites and string must meet approved safety standards, allowing the use of cotton string only, while metal coated or chemically treated string is strictly prohibited.
Only registered vendors will be authorized to sell kites and related equipment. The registration system is intended to ensure traceability of all approved materials and to clearly distinguish legal supplies from unregistered or unsafe products.
IG Rao Abdul Karim made it clear that strict legal action will be taken against any violations, including illegal sales or the use of unsafe materials. These safety measures are designed to reduce risks that have previously resulted from unregulated kite flying and hazardous string.
According to the Basant safety code, participation by individuals under the age of 18 is prohibited, with parents or guardians held responsible for ensuring compliance. Violators will face fines or other legal action.
The provincial government will implement zoning, surveillance, and monitoring arrangements throughout the festival to ensure enforcement of safety regulations. Law enforcement agencies, in coordination with the district administration, will control public spaces, prevent illegal activities, and facilitate the safe celebration of the festival.
The IG’s directives reflect the provincial government’s commitment to public safety, regulated festivities, and adherence to established protocols, while maintaining a balance between Basant’s cultural significance and modern safety standards.