LAHORE – The Provincial Development Working Party (PDWP) of Punjab has given the green light to nine major development projects worth over Rs. 22.18 billion during its 16th meeting of the current fiscal year, held on Friday.
Chaired by Dr. Naeem Rauf, Chairman of the Planning & Development Board, the forum sanctioned projects aimed at boosting renewable energy, healthcare, fisheries, and emergency services.
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The approved schemes include:
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Aquaculture: Shrimp Farming in Punjab (Revised) – Rs. 9,940 million
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Feasibility Study on Large-Scale Shrimp Farming (PC-II) – Rs. 500 million
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Solarization of Public Colleges in Punjab – Rs. 2,940.73 million
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Feasibility Study to Establish Electric Power Regulatory Authority (EPRA) – Rs. 30 million
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Solarization of District and Sessions Courts & High Court Benches – Rs. 3,006.63 million
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Solarization of THQ Hospitals – Rs. 976 million
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Rescue EMT Internship Program – Rs. 1,051.194 million
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Fire Service for 39 Tehsils (without Fire Vehicle) – Rs. 1,884 million
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Procurement of Ambulances for Referral – Rs. 1,853.164 million
A significant portion of the funding is directed towards solarization projects for public institutions, including colleges, hospitals, and courts, aimed at reducing electricity costs and promoting sustainable energy.
Healthcare improvements include funding for ambulances and the Rescue EMT Internship Program to strengthen Punjab’s emergency response capacity.
The shrimp farming initiative and related feasibility studies are expected to open new economic opportunities in aquaculture, positioning Punjab as a player in seafood exports.
The meeting was attended by P&D Board Secretary Rafaqat Ali, Fisheries Secretary Muddassir Riaz, Secretary Energy Dr. Farrukh Naveed, board members, and other senior officials.
