WB-funded projects to revive Khanewal infrastructure

A series of long-delayed and ongoing development projects in Khanewal, supported by the World Bank in collaboration with the Punjab government, are progressing with the aim of improving civic amenities, urban infrastructure, sanitation, and environmental conditions across the district. The projects are part of broader initiatives designed to address issues such as clean drinking water shortages, poor sewerage systems, broken streets, inadequate drainage, and insufficient street lighting, particularly in densely populated urban and semi-urban areas. Among key initiatives is the rehabilitation and beautification of Fazal Park and Nishat Lake, with an estimated cost of Rs114.8 million. The project includes landscaping, improvement of recreational facilities, and enhancement of the urban environment. Under a 10-year social development programme between the Punjab government and the World Bank, a clean drinking water scheme has also been included alongside interventions in education, municipal services, and social welfare sectors. A district-wide beautification programme, with a total cost of Rs886 million, is also nearing completion. The scheme includes three major city-level projects: Khanewal (Rs600 million), Mian Channu (Rs146 million), and Jahanian (Rs140 million). Under these initiatives, markets and intersections are being upgraded with tiling (tuff tiles), installation of streetlights, construction of entrance gates, and other beautification works. Officials said that ongoing urban development projects also include the upgrading of water supply systems, sewerage networks, and drainage infrastructure across multiple cities under the Punjab Cities Programme, benefiting thousands of residents facing sanitation-related issues. Authorities said delays in some schemes are due to procedural requirements, including tendering, land verification and financial approvals. Deputy Commissioner Maliah Rashid has directed the relevant departments that all development schemes be completed within stipulated timelines with strict adherence to transparency standards. Additional Deputy Commissioner (General) Naeem Sadiq Cheema is supervising key infrastructure projects including carpet roads and tuff tile schemes aimed at improving both urban and rural connectivity.

from Punjab News Updates and Insights - The Express Tribune https://ift.tt/fBrk6b4