The Punjab government has announced its decision to amend the Local Government Act 2022 in order to rectify existing discrepancies, with proposals sought from relevant departments for the amendments.
This decision was made during the second meeting of the Cabinet Standing Committee on Legislation and Privatization, chaired by Provincial Minister of Finance and Parliamentary Affairs, Mujtaba Shujaur Rehman, at the Civil Secretariat Durbar Hall.
In attendance were Provincial Minister for Communication and Works Sohaib Ahmed Malik, Minister for Local Government Zeeshan Rafique, Information Minister Punjab Uzma Bukhari, and secretaries of relevant departments.
The meeting addressed a five-point agenda, including amendments to the Local Government Act 2022, appointment of administrators, approval for the establishment of cement factories, approval of technical experts for Ravai Urban Development Board, and nominations for Vice Chancellor and Rector positions at Lahore Garrison University and Imperial College of Business Studies.
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Decisions were made to ensure clearance from all relevant departments, including Irrigation, Local Government, Environment, Industries, Law, Livestock, and Wildlife, for the establishment of cement plants. The Higher Education Department was instructed to propose amendments to the Universities Act to oversee private university affairs.
Provincial Minister Mujtaba emphasized the necessity of conducting feasibility studies before approving cement plants due to water shortage concerns. The committee members will personally inspect sites for approval, and the Irrigation Department will take legal action against excessive water usage in approved cement factories.
Addressing environmental and livestock concerns, Minister Sohaib Ahmed Malik stressed the importance of obtaining clearance from relevant departments before establishing plants, aiming to protect the natural environment and livestock.
Information Minister Uzma Bukhari highlighted the importance of industrialization for economic development, emphasizing compliance with all laws for industrial establishments.
Provincial Minister for Local Government Zeeshan Rafiq stated that the aim of amending the Local Government Act 2022 is to address loopholes and enhance its effectiveness.
In addition, the meeting approved the appointments of Major General Khalil Dar as Vice Chancellor of Garrison University and Dr. Tahira Aziz as Rector of Imperial College of Business Studies.