Punjab to Transform Rural Areas into Model Villages

The Punjab government has approved an ambitious plan to convert the province’s rural areas into modern, well-equipped model villages. Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has officially sanctioned the “Model Village Project,” aiming to uplift the standard of living in Punjab’s countryside.

Local Government Minister Zeeshan Rafiq has been assigned to lead the initiative. Under this plan, approximately 2,400 villages across the province will be upgraded into model villages. The Punjab government will fund improvements in 800 villages, including those around Lahore, while the World Bank will provide financial assistance for upgrading the remaining 1,600 villages.

According to official sources, dedicated funding for this project will be allocated in the upcoming provincial budget. The model villages will be developed in line with international standards, ensuring comprehensive infrastructure and basic services.

Key features of the project include:

• Construction of paved streets
• Reliable water supply systems
• Effective sanitation and cleanliness measures
• Installation of streetlights
• Access to safe drinking water
• Provision of other essential amenities

The transformation will be carried out in phases, ultimately covering over 60% of villages in Punjab.

This initiative reflects the provincial government’s commitment to rural development and improving the quality of life for residents in remote areas.