Author: dailybalochistantimes.com

Lahore: Punjab Transport Secretary Dr. Ahmad Javid Qazi said on Monday that 27 electric buses for Lahore will reach Karachi Port on January 15.

He announced that eco-friendly electric buses will initially operate on two routes in the first phase.

Talking to reporter, the Punjab Transport Secretary said electric buses are arriving six days ahead of schedule.

He informed that Provincial Transport Minister Bilal Akbar Khan will complete the process of receiving the buses from Karachi Port during the current week.

He further said the process of purchasing 27 electric buses for Lahore has been completed, adding, these electric buses were purchased from China. Meanwhile the buses will reach Lahore from Karachi on January 21.

After the unveiling ceremony in Lahore, the electric buses will be made operational on two routes in the city.

The secretary said that preparations have been made to make the electric buses operational on January 31.

To a query, he said that two routes have been identified for the electric buses. Environment-friendly buses will be run on the route from Canal Road and Railway Station to RA Bazaar.

The electric buses will remain operational for twelve years, the cost of one bus is Rs.88 million. Currently, 27 buses will be operating at a cost of 2.46 billion.

Lahore: Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has announced a bold initiative to provide 100,000 houses to deserving families within the next year.

Speaking at the inauguration ceremony of Zahra Homes/Maskan Ravi project, here on Monday, the CM expressed her satisfaction over the completion of Zahra Homes/Maskan Ravi, which has already provided homes to 100 families in just two and a half months, thanks to the efforts of RUDA and the Housing and Urban Development Department.

The CM paid tribute to the vision of PML-N Quaid Muhammad Nawaz Sharif, acknowledging his dedication to the nation’s development over the past 45 years. “When it comes to progress in Pakistan, the name of Nawaz Sharif is synonymous with nuclear power, economic growth, and infrastructure development like motorways,” she said.

The CM emphasized the importance of ensuring merit and transparency in the distribution of homes under the Apni Chhat, Apna Ghar program, a key initiative under which interest-free loans of up to Rs. 1.5 million are being provided to families to help them build their homes. These loans, repayable in seven years, have already helped thousands, with more houses under construction in 37 districts across the province.

CM Maryam Nawaz also revealed plans for a new scheme to provide free residential plots of three marlas to deserving individuals, further expanding access to affordable housing. “This initiative reflects my commitment to fulfilling Nawaz Sharif’s dream of serving the people of Punjab,” she said.

Under the Apni Chhat, Apna Ghar program, the first five houses will also be furnished as a gift. “The overwhelming positive feedback from beneficiaries is a source of strength, and it motivates us to continue our efforts,” she added.

The CM highlighted other ongoing initiatives such as the Kisan and Livestock Cards benefiting farmers, free medicines and tests at hospitals, and ongoing construction of healthcare facilities like the Nawaz Sharif Cancer Hospital. The Suthra Punjab program, aimed at cleaning up the province, and the construction of 400 roads were also mentioned as part of the government’s development agenda.

In addressing concerns over inflation, the CM pointed out significant reductions in the prices of essential items like flour and bread, attributing this to effective governance. “The price of bread has dropped from Rs. 30 to Rs. 12, and the price of flour has also reduced,” she affirmed. The CM pledged the launch of more development projects, aimed at further improving the lives of the people of Punjab.

Lahore: Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has announced the launch of a free 3 Marla plot scheme for deserving individuals, aimed at providing affordable housing to those in need.

The announcement was made during her visit to the Zahra Homes/Maskan Ravi Scheme in Kala Shah Kaku, here on Monday, where she also conducted a detailed inspection of the project.

The CM handed over allotment letters and keys to 100 families, expressing her satisfaction with the quality and facilities provided in the scheme. The Zahra Homes project, located in Mouza Nehra Pur on Kala Khatai Road, Lahore, features 100 houses, each spanning 400 square feet, including two bedrooms, a kitchen, a bathroom, and a courtyard.

Zahra Homes are designed with advanced technology, incorporating earthquake-proof structures, energy-efficient systems, and environmental sustainability measures using EPS Smart Panel Technology. Each home is powered by a 5 kW solar system, and the community is equipped with essential facilities such as an RO plant for clean water, a school, playground, mosque, and dispensary.

The Maskan-e-Ravi Housing Scheme is a collaborative effort between the Punjab Government’s RUDA (Ravi Urban Development Authority) and EPS Solutions Pakistan. During the ceremony, a documentary highlighting the services and contributions of PML-N President Muhammad Nawaz Sharif was also presented. Provincial Minister for Housing Bilal Yasin also addressed the gathering.