Provincial Minister for Information and Culture, Azma Bokhari has said that under the vision of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, Punjab has embarked on the largest and most transparent development journey in its history. The objective is to uplift the public from conditions of neglect and underdevelopment and provide a clean, modern living environment.
She expressed these views while speaking to the media after receiving a detailed briefing on development projects and the law and order situation at the Deputy Commissioner’s Office in Sheikhupura.
Azma Bokhari revealed that Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has announced a historic development package worth Rs 48 billion for Sheikhupura. Under this package, extensive work is underway across the district, including the construction of new roads, modern sewerage systems, water tanks, and city beautification projects.
She emphasized that, unlike in the past, development is no longer limited to selected areas but is now reaching every town and village across Punjab. An amount exceeding Rs 12.5 billion has been allocated specifically for WASA-related projects.
Sharing a major development for the city, she announced that eco-friendly electric green buses will begin operating between Lahore and Sheikhupura within the next 10 days. This service will particularly benefit female students, working women, and elderly citizens by providing safe and dignified transportation. She directed the administration to complete the construction of modern depots and charging stations on an emergency basis.
Speaking about sanitation and rural uplift, Azma Bokhari said that the flagship programs “Suthra Punjab” and “Model Village” are transforming rural areas. Under these initiatives, projects worth Rs 809 million are being implemented to provide sewerage systems and basic facilities. She added that, for the first time in 74 years, a structured waste management system has been established, which is being closely monitored.
On administrative discipline, she made it clear that Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has issued strict instructions that no delays in development projects or compromises on safety measures will be tolerated. She directed the Deputy Commissioner to display project details and visuals at excavation sites so that the public remains informed about the benefits following temporary inconvenience.
Highlighting improvements in law and order, she appreciated the performance of the Punjab Police, stating that, in line with the Chief Minister’s vision, significant progress has been achieved, including up to a 40% reduction in rape cases. She reaffirmed the government’s commitment to intensifying crackdowns against drug trafficking and child abuse.
Azma Bokhari reiterated that the Chief Minister’s vision is to ensure uniform development across Punjab rather than focusing on a single region. The governance model is strictly merit-based, where only those who perform will retain their positions.
She noted that discussions about improvements in schools, hospitals, law and order, and green transport are now taking place across the province. The Chief Minister has launched over 100 development projects within a short period, which she described as a remarkable achievement.
She further stated that the law and order situation continues to improve steadily, crediting Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz for these advancements.
Responding to questions, Azma Bokhari said that Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz treats politics as a form of public service and devotion. Completing over 100 projects within one and a half to two years is a significant challenge, but public service remains the core mission.
She added that the Pakistan Muslim League (N) has a history of rescuing the country from economic default and transforming it into a nuclear power. She also credited the party’s leadership for strong defense responses and diplomatic achievements, noting that Pakistan is gaining global recognition, including through platforms like the Islamabad Talks.
Regarding rising prices of essential commodities, she stated that the issue is under the Chief Minister’s attention and will be controlled soon.
She concluded by saying that the Punjab government is improving the standard of public schools, which is evident from the growing number of applicants seeking admission to institutions like the Nawaz Shari Center of Excellence, where long queues of students can now be seen.