Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif announced after a special meeting that with the launch of a massive Rs 16.90 billion beautification project by the provincial government, Assistant Commissioners across Punjab will now be subject to strict performance indicators and face potential action for urban decay.
During a detailed briefing on Thursday, it was stated that 132 beautification schemes are to be completed in 39 districts, with the target for the current phase set from February to May.
Work orders for 97 of these schemes have already been issued, while construction and implementation activities are underway on 88 projects in 33 districts across the province.
The breakdown of these urban renewal projects includes 18 in Lahore, 17 in Rawalpindi, 16 in Bahawalpur, 13 in Faisalabad, 12 in Gujranwala, 8 in Multan, 6 in Sargodha, and 24 projects in the Sahiwal division.
The scope of the beautification program extends beyond mere aesthetics, encompassing the restoration of ancient gates, installation of fiberglass and tensile covers in bazaars, and the inclusion of water features like fountains and artificial waterfalls in urban projects.
Directives were issued to establish green belts on central medians, use fast-growing plants for greenery, and replace traditional grey footpath tiles with more colorful and visually appealing ones.
To ensure transparency and monitor progress, a dedicated dashboard for the beautification project will be created as per the Chief Minister’s instructions, which must be updated daily.
Accountability measures have been formalized by setting Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) for Assistant Commissioners, similar to those for Deputy Commissioners. Performance will be closely monitored, and officers will face consequences for issues such as open manholes, broken roads, garbage heaps, deteriorated green belts, poor paint, and visible encroachments.
“If encroachments are visible, action will be taken against Assistant Commissioners,” said Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif.
Emphasizing a comprehensive approach, she affirmed that “the process of beautifying cities will continue. Every district, city, and town will be beautified from end to end.” “Not just one bazaar, every single corner of the city should look clean.”
The Chief Minister also stressed the importance of minimizing public disruption during the extensive works.