Punjab Minister Azma Bukhari Defends Petrol Price Hike

Punjab Information Minister Azma Bukhari defended the recent increase in petroleum prices, describing it as an unavoidable decision due to global economic instability. Despite acknowledging that the price hike was difficult and less than anticipated by some stakeholders, she assured that these measures were necessary for sustaining major development projects currently underway.

A special video-link meeting organized by Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz addressed various initiatives including clean water programs, drainage improvements, and the Model Village Project. The chief minister reviewed ongoing developments in Sargodha, Dera Ghazi Khan, Gujrat, Okara, Jhang, Multan, Sialkot, and other areas. She emphasized that 358 underground storage tanks would be installed to manage water shortages, ensuring timely drainage and improving sewerage systems. The meeting also highlighted the construction of major underground water storage tanks in cities for efficient rainwater management.

The chief minister directed officials to complete drainage projects before the monsoon season. Furthermore, 61 disposal stations were set to be rehabilitated alongside 56 new stations, while 328 wastewater treatment plants would commence operations across Punjab, along with 3,498 kilometers of sewerage lines in various cities.

To enhance street lighting and municipal infrastructure, nearly 33 million square feet of tough tiles will be laid. Additionally, 526 modern machines and tractors were allocated for drainage operations. Officials reported that the Punjab Development Program had already begun in several districts, including Sargodha, Dera Ghazi Khan, Gujrat, Okara, Jhang, Multan, Sialkot, and others. The Model Village Project would involve implementing development schemes worth Rs59 billion in 485 villages, starting with a pilot phase of 200.

Bukhari highlighted the Nigehban Ramadan Card program, noting that over two million cards have already been issued to help families access essential services during Ramadan. She also underscored rapid progress on the Punjab Development Program, emphasizing efforts are underway not only in urban areas but also in rural regions across various districts.

Azma Bukhari reiterates that global economic conditions necessitated the price increase. While acknowledging it was challenging and less significant than initially anticipated, she stated that once the situation stabilizes, prices will decline. The chief minister directed all authorities to ensure efficient drainage systems are prioritized for cities like Gujrat and Sialkot.

In her press conference, Bukhari conveyed a message of optimism about upcoming development initiatives in Punjab. She stressed that while efforts focus on infrastructure improvements, significant progress has been made across multiple projects, including clean water programs and rural development schemes under the Model Village Project.