LAHORE: In a move that reflects the Punjab government’s consistent efforts to bring visible and tangible improvements to the lives of ordinary citizens, authorities have expanded the province’s ambitious Model Village Program, pledging to uplift living standards across hundreds of rural communities.
According to officials, 485 villages across Punjab have been included in the initiative, with 138 PC-1 documents prepared to formalize development plans. The program focuses on infrastructure, sanitation, water supply, and other essential services, aiming to accelerate improvements in the quality of life for rural populations.
Following a major revision in costs, the project’s total expenditure has now reached Rs.60 billion, up from the initial Rs.49 billion. So far, 357 villages have been approved, development contracts have been issued in 302, and tender advertisements have been floated for projects in 55 villages.
The Minister for Local Government Affairs said the program would ensure the establishment of sewage systems in every model village, with covered drains to prevent accidents. Punjab has recently witnessed tragic incidents, including deaths near Data Darbar, where children and adults fell into open manholes and drainage lines. “This program will eliminate such hazards,” he remarked.
Officials added that upon completion, no street in the model villages would remain unpaved. Filtration plants and street lights are also part of the plan, while comprehensive master planning has been carried out to give rural areas a “new look.”
In a bid to ensure accuracy and transparency, the Secretary Local Government has been directed to employ artificial intelligence in the survey process. Authorities believe this will strengthen oversight and help deliver the program’s benefits more effectively.
