The Punjab government’s 2025–26 budget is out, and it brings some major developments, especially for roads and transport in the province.
This year’s budget includes the largest Annual Development Plan (ADP) in Punjab’s history, amounting to Rs. 1.24 trillion. That’s nearly a 47% increase from last year’s plan. Out of this, Rs. 335.5 billion has been assigned for infrastructure alone, which includes roads, bridges, and public transport systems.
Road Development
A major highlight of the budget is the Rs. 120 billion allocated specifically for road construction and rehabilitation across the province. From highways to small roads in far-flung areas, this funding aims to improve travel times and safety for millions of people.
A key part of this effort is the Chief Minister’s Local Roads Programme, which received a generous Rs. 50 billion. This program focuses on repairing and upgrading roads in smaller towns and rural communities—areas that often get overlooked.
Here’s what this will support:
- Widening and resurfacing of broken or narrow roads
- New link roads connecting remote areas to highways
- Easier, safer travel for residents in rural Punjab
Upgrades in Public Transport
Alongside road improvements, the Punjab government has also set aside about Rs. 80–85 billion for transport sector development. This includes both new initiatives and ongoing projects.
One of the standout investments is Rs. 30 billion for mass transit systems in cities like Lahore, Faisalabad, and Gujranwala. These are aimed at reducing congestion, improving air quality, and giving city dwellers a smoother commuting experience.
Additionally, the government has announced:
- Rs. 3.5 billion for launching an Electric Taxi (E-Taxi) Scheme
- Rs. 46 billion for deploying electric buses across major urban areas
Underdeveloped Districts to Receive Upgrades Too
Unlike past years, this budget doesn’t just favor the big cities. The government is allocating Rs. 24.5 billion to improve roads in underdeveloped districts like Layyah and Bhakkar. These regions have often been left out of major infrastructure upgrades.
Better road networks in these areas are expected to:
- Improve access to schools, clinics, and markets
- Make transporting goods easier for small businesses and farmers
- Help reduce the development gap between urban and rural Punjab
