Punjab approves Rs23.85bn for rural infrastructure development programme

Punjab has sanctioned Rs23.85 billion for its Khushhal Dehat Programme, which will fund rural infrastructure work across the province. Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif said the initial phase will reach 475 villages, with Rs50 million assigned to projects in each village.

The planned work includes paved streets and improved sewerage systems, overseen by village development committees made up of five government representatives and four private members. Officials have been told to send the first funding instalment to these committees by November, while a plan for a further 2,000 villages is to be prepared for the programme’s second phase. The provincial government says the initiative is intended to extend basic facilities across rural communities and address local needs without regard to political affiliation.