Punjab Province

Rawalpindi: [ReNews Pakistan]
Pakistan Railways, in coordination with the Railways Police, has successfully reclaimed valuable commercial land worth approximately Rs120 million during a targeted anti encroachment operation in Rawalpindi.
According to an official spokesperson, the operation was carried out on Goods Approach Road, where authorities demolished 15 illegally constructed commercial shops. In addition, multiple residential and commercial encroachments were removed, leading to the recovery of nearly two kanals of prime railway land.
The operation was conducted in the Rawalpindi Division under the vision of Federal Minister for Railways Mohammad Hanif Abbasi and on the directives of Inspector General Railways Police Mohammad Wisal Fakhar Sultan. A heavy contingent of Railways Police, led by Superintendent Railways Police Kosar Abbas along with the Station House Officer, took part in the action. Officials from the Railway Engineering Department also assisted to ensure smooth execution.
Speaking on the occasion, IG Railways Police Mohammad Wisal Fakhar Sultan reaffirmed the department’s commitment to a zero tolerance policy against encroachments on railway land. He emphasized that such operations are crucial not only for safeguarding public assets but also for improving the financial health of Pakistan Railways.
The Railways Police further reiterated its resolve to continue strict and indiscriminate action against land mafia elements across the country to protect state owned properties.

Lahore: [Re News Pakistan]
Provincial Minister for Health and Population Khawaja Imran Nazir stated that Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz has provided the public with a historic development package in the form of the Lahore Development Program (LDP). He said that the Lahore Development Program is the largest urban development initiative in the history of the Punjab government.
He further added that the Chief Minister’s vision through this program is to modernize the basic infrastructure of Lahore and improve the quality of urban life.
He expressed these views while presiding over a meeting at Town Hall with the chairmen and vice chairmen of Shalimar, Wagah, and Aziz Bhatti towns. Member Provincial Assembly Malik Waheed, Deputy Commissioner Captain (R) Muhammad Ali Ejaz, MD WASA Ghufran Ahmed, Irfan Kathia, ADC (F&P) MCL, and representatives from NESPAK and WASA were also present at the meeting.
The meeting reviewed various development works under Phase I and II of the Lahore Development Program.

Lahore | ReNews Pakistan
The Punjab government has decided to establish biodiversity corridors to promote environmental protection across the province. Under this initiative, district agencies working under the Horticulture Authority will develop such corridors in their respective cities to help preserve natural habitats and improve the environment.
According to Director General Raja Mansoor Ahmed, biodiversity corridors are strips of vegetation, hedges, or uncut land that connect fragmented natural habitats. These corridors enable wildlife to move freely between parks and باغات, while also providing better access to food and breeding opportunities.
In this regard, instructions have been issued to the managing directors of all district horticulture agencies to promote plantation of native trees, including sheesham, mulberry, and banyan. Additionally, the development of new green spaces in urban areas has also been emphasized.
Under the plan, shade-giving trees will be planted near bus stops to provide relief to commuters. Furthermore, students from educational institutions will be involved in environmental awareness campaigns, and voluntary tree plantation drives will be encouraged.
Officials stated that these measures aim to address the growing challenges of smog and air pollution in the province and promote a healthier environment.