Punjab Province

Rawalpindi : ReNews Pakistan
The Rawalpindi administration has accelerated work on several major infrastructure projects aimed at improving urban mobility, reducing traffic congestion and strengthening public utilities, with two flagship road development schemes scheduled for completion by June 2027.
Commissioner Rawalpindi Division Salman Ghani reviewed the progress of key development projects during an inspection visit, directing all relevant departments to ensure timely execution while maintaining construction quality and implementing comprehensive safety measures throughout the ongoing monsoon season.
The commissioner inspected the Qasim Market Development Project, the Race Course Chowk Development Project, and the 1,400mm water supply pipeline being laid by the Water and Sanitation Agency (WASA) along Syedpur Road under the Punjab Development Program.
Officials briefed the commissioner that the Qasim Market Development Project is expected to improve traffic movement for approximately 182,000 vehicles every day, while the Race Course Chowk Development Project will facilitate smoother traffic flow for nearly 250,000 vehicles daily. Together, the two projects are expected to significantly reduce travel time, improve road connectivity and ease congestion across some of Rawalpindi's busiest transport corridors.
Both road infrastructure projects are currently scheduled for completion by June 2027.
During the review meeting, Commissioner Salman Ghani instructed all executing agencies to accelerate construction activities, ensure effective coordination among departments and promptly resolve utility relocation, technical and administrative issues that could delay progress. He emphasized that the projects must be completed within the approved timeline without compromising engineering standards or public safety.
The commissioner also reviewed progress on the Syedpur Road water supply scheme, where WASA Managing Director Azizullah Khan informed him that nearly 70 percent of the pipeline installation has already been completed. According to the project timeline, the scheme is expected to be finished by August 20, 2026.
Once operational, the new 1,400mm pipeline is expected to improve the reliability and capacity of clean drinking water supply for thousands of residents in Rawalpindi by strengthening the city's water distribution network.
Given the ongoing monsoon season, the commissioner directed contractors and executing agencies to minimize unnecessary excavation work and adopt enhanced safety protocols at all construction sites. He instructed authorities to install adequate warning signs, reflectors, lighting arrangements and effective traffic management systems to safeguard motorists and pedestrians while ensuring uninterrupted progress on the development projects.

Lahore | ReNews Pakistan
Pakistan Railways has announced an ambitious restoration and modernisation plan for the historic Lahore and Taxila railway stations, combining heritage conservation with contemporary passenger amenities in a move aimed at preserving the country's architectural legacy while strengthening tourism and rail travel.
The comprehensive master plans have been finalised on the directives of Federal Minister for Railways Muhammad Hanif Abbasi, with the Punjab government extending its support under the instructions of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz. Officials said the projects are designed to restore the stations' historic character while upgrading infrastructure to meet modern operational and passenger requirements.
According to Pakistan Railways, the restoration programme will prioritise the preservation of each station's original architectural identity and historical significance. At the same time, the projects will introduce improvements in accessibility, safety, passenger comfort and public services without compromising the heritage value of the sites.
At Lahore Railway Station, restoration work will include structural rehabilitation, repairs to roofing and drainage systems, installation of heritage-style lighting, refurbishment of the main concourse and reservation office, and restoration of passenger platforms. Modern facilities such as a family lounge, an information centre and enhanced passenger amenities will also be added to improve the overall travel experience.
The Taxila Railway Station project will focus on restoring the historic ticket office and verandahs, improving pedestrian access, developing landscaped public spaces, upgrading parking and public facilities, and transforming the former goods warehouse into a café and restaurant through adaptive reuse. The station will also feature heritage displays showcasing Taxila's rich archaeological and cultural history to encourage tourism and educate visitors.
Pakistan Railways said both projects will be carried out in accordance with internationally recognised heritage conservation principles. Unauthorised additions made over the years will be removed to restore the stations' original appearance while ensuring that modern facilities are integrated in a manner that respects their historic architecture.
Railways Minister Muhammad Hanif Abbasi said the initiative is part of a broader nationwide programme to restore historic railway stations across Pakistan. The programme seeks to safeguard the country's railway heritage, enhance passenger services, improve operational standards and promote tourism by transforming historic stations into attractive cultural and transportation hubs.
Officials believe the restoration of Lahore and Taxila railway stations will not only preserve two of Pakistan's most significant railway landmarks but also contribute to regional economic activity, cultural tourism and a more comfortable travel experience for passengers.

Lahore : ReNews Pakistan
Lahore Development Authority Director General Tahir Farooq visited Data Darbar and the Bhati Chowk Underpass to review the progress of ongoing development projects, drainage arrangements and safety measures during the monsoon rains.
During the visit, TEPA Chief Engineer Iqrar Hussain briefed the LDA director general on the progress of the project, challenges caused by the rainfall and precautionary measures being implemented at the site.
Officials informed the director general that heavy rain had continued intermittently around Data Darbar and Bhati Chowk. Despite the adverse weather, effective safety arrangements remained in place around the service road, the drainage well under construction and other development sites.
Traffic around the underpass was also flowing without interruption, helping residents and commuters avoid major difficulties while travelling through the area.
Farooq directed the relevant authorities to give the highest priority to public safety throughout the monsoon season and strengthen precautionary measures at all development sites. He said the agencies concerned were responsible not only for completing the projects but also for protecting citizens and maintaining the smooth flow of traffic.
The LDA director general instructed WASA to deploy drainage teams in two shifts at Bhati Chowk and Circular Road to ensure the timely removal of rainwater. He directed officials to respond immediately wherever water accumulated so that traffic movement and daily life were not disrupted.
At the conclusion of the visit, Farooq reviewed the overall progress of the development works, the drainage system and the precautions adopted during the rainy season. He directed the relevant officers to maintain continuous monitoring throughout the monsoon and ensure that all departments remained fully prepared to respond to any emergency situation.