The Provincial Development Working Party (PDWP) of Punjab approved a series of development projects and position papers on Wednesday, with a combined estimated cost of approximately Rs. 8 billion. The approvals span key sectors, including road infrastructure, labour and human resources, health, and public safety, highlighting the provincial government’s continued focus on improving connectivity, workforce welfare, and emergency services.
Among the road infrastructure initiatives, the PDWP sanctioned the rehabilitation and widening of a 19.5-kilometre road from Satghara to Gogera via Jaboka in tehsil and district Okara. The project is estimated to cost Rs. 1.315 billion and aims to enhance regional connectivity, reduce travel times, and facilitate smoother transportation for commuters and local businesses.
In Sahiwal, the PDWP approved the construction of a 13.7-kilometre bypass from Royal Hotel (N-5) to Sarwar Chowk via Adda Mai Wali Masjid. The revised project, estimated at Rs. 1.989 billion, is designed to decongest city traffic, improve access to commercial hubs, and support efficient movement of goods and services across the district.
Another significant road project cleared by the PDWP is the construction of a 24.15-kilometre dual carriageway from Sheikh Fazal to Chichawatni, also in Sahiwal. This revised project carries an estimated cost of Rs. 4.596 billion and is expected to provide a modern transport corridor capable of accommodating growing traffic volumes, while boosting trade and local economic activity.
In addition to road infrastructure, the PDWP approved a pilot project for establishing an occupational safety and health laboratory in Faisalabad. The laboratory will play a critical role in advancing workplace safety standards, conducting inspections, and supporting research and training programs aimed at reducing occupational hazards across various industries in the province.
Public safety infrastructure also received attention, with the PDWP sanctioning the establishment of a Rescue Station at Chowk Marlay, supported by strategic points at Purana Thana and Qaboola in Pakpattan district. This initiative aims to strengthen emergency response capabilities for vehicles and public safety, ensuring faster and more coordinated services in the event of accidents or natural disasters.
Officials highlighted that these projects reflect Punjab’s ongoing commitment to enhancing critical infrastructure, human resource development, and public safety. The combination of transport, health, and emergency initiatives is expected to stimulate economic activity, generate employment opportunities, and improve the quality of life for residents across the province.
Experts note that timely execution and monitoring of these projects will be essential to realizing their full potential. Road upgrades are anticipated to ease logistics bottlenecks, while the occupational health laboratory and rescue stations will contribute to safer work environments and more resilient communities.
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