Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has approved a new rural development initiative aimed at transforming villages across the province into model communities, with pilot projects set to begin in 120 villages.
The decision was taken during a special meeting chaired by the chief minister, where officials presented a detailed briefing on the proposed programme.
Participants agreed to introduce the Prosperous Villages Act 2026 and initiate the first phase of development work in selected rural areas.
Maryam Nawaz directed officials to prepare a plan for establishing village committees in consultation with local public representatives.
Each committee will comprise four public representatives and four government representatives, with the relevant assistant commissioner serving as its head.
Deputy commissioners will oversee the committees and supervise the overall implementation of the development programme.
Under the initiative, the provincial government plans to improve sewerage and drainage systems, construct paved streets and upgrade basic infrastructure in participating villages.
Members of the provincial and national assemblies, along with election ticket holders, will also be assigned responsibilities for monitoring development projects in their respective areas.
The chief minister emphasised that rural communities should receive greater attention in provincial development planning.
She said the government’s commitment to transforming Punjab’s villages into model communities remained firm, adding that development would no longer be concentrated in major cities.
Maryam Nawaz also stressed the importance of involving local residents in decision-making and ensuring transparency and quality in the execution of projects.
She expressed confidence that the initiative would eventually extend across Punjab, with the aim of improving living conditions and basic infrastructure in villages throughout the province.