The Punjab government has approved nine major development projects for three districts of the Faisalabad Division under the Punjab Development Program (PDP), officials said on Thursday. The projects will be carried out across Faisalabad, Jhang, and Toba Tek Singh and are expected to cost billions of rupees.
A review meeting regarding the progress and planning of these projects was chaired by Commissioner Faisalabad Division Raja Jahangir Anwar. During the meeting, the commissioner directed relevant departments to complete master planning, tendering, and the award of contracts without delay.
He stressed the importance of coordination among assistant commissioners, NESPAK, local government departments, and the project management unit, stating that timely cooperation was essential for smooth execution.
Commissioner Anwar said that once planning and awarding processes are finalized, development work should begin in double shifts. He added that he would personally visit the concerned tehsils on a weekly basis to monitor progress.
Referring to directives from the chief minister, the commissioner emphasized that the Punjab Development Program must be implemented efficiently and without delays. He instructed deputy commissioners to treat PDP projects as a top priority and ensure close monitoring at all stages.
In a separate meeting, Commissioner Anwar set a one-week deadline for the installation of fire extinguishers in all multi-storey buildings across the division.
He directed Civil Defense and Rescue 1122 to issue notices to marquees, hotels, restaurants, shopping malls, industrial units, housing societies, public offices, and educational institutions to ensure compliance with safety regulations. He also instructed that mock emergency drills be conducted in educational institutions to enhance preparedness for potential emergencies.
He warned that inspections would be carried out after one week by himself, along with deputy and assistant commissioners. Buildings found in violation of safety measures would face fines and sealing, he said.