Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, chairing a special meeting here on Sunday, reviewed the progress of the Faisalabad Mass Transit System.
The CM was given a detailed briefing on the ongoing planning and execution of the project.
During the meeting, the chief minister assessed the overall development work and directed the authorities concerned to further accelerate the pace of construction to ensure timely completion of the project. She emphasized that modern urban transport facilities are a priority of the provincial government.
CM Maryam Nawaz also instructed that high-quality and spacious elevators be installed at all stations of the mass transit system to facilitate commuters, particularly senior citizens, women, and differently-abled persons. The CM ordered that urban forestry and green belts be developed at all open spaces along the mass transit route, underscoring the importance of environmental sustainability and beautification in urban development projects.
The meeting was briefed that the Faisalabad Mass Transit System will span a total length of 20.5 kilometers and will include 21 stations. Out of the total route, 11.3 kilometers will be elevated, comprising 11 elevated stations designed to ensure smooth and uninterrupted traffic flow.
It was also informed that dedicated depots for the mass transit system will be established at Faisal Town and Airport Chowk to support operations and maintenance.
The CM said that the provincial government is committed to delivering modern, efficient, and eco-friendly public transport facilities to the people of Punjab, and all projects will be completed with transparency, quality, and speed.
Meanwhile, Maryam Nawaz paid glowing tribute to journalists and media professionals across the world, saying she salutes all those associated with broadcasting and journalism.
In her message on the World Press Freedom Day dedicated to the theme “Shaping a Peaceful Future,” the CM particularly lauded journalists who have struggled for the cause of press freedom, terming their sacrifices highly commendable.
The CM said that responsible freedom of expression is the foundation and identity of a democratic society, adding that an independent, autonomous and responsible media represents true journalistic strength.
CM Maryam Nawaz said that journalism and democracy are directly interlinked and reinforced by each other. “When the press is free and responsible, democracy becomes stronger,” she remarked, emphasizing that a vibrant media plays a vital role in democratic stability and public awareness.
She said that the Punjab government stands with the journalist community in the journey of strengthening democracy and is working to fulfill the long-standing aspiration of providing “own home” facilities for journalists. She reiterated that all possible support will continue for the promotion and protection of press freedom.
The CM stressed the need for a collective commitment to curb propaganda, fake news and rumor-based reporting, saying such practices damage society and weaken public trust in information. She added that in the fast-evolving digital media landscape, competition must never come at the cost of truth and ethical journalism.
CM Maryam Nawaz Sharif added that journalists have the right to a dignified, safe and conducive working environment in the discharge of their professional duties. She said that comprehensive measures are being taken to ensure their protection and well-being.
She said that on World Press Freedom Day, it is essential for all stakeholders to reaffirm their pledge to uphold truth, responsibility and ethical standards in journalism.