Punjab Province

Lahore: ReNews Pakistan
In a move aimed at strengthening environmental protection, the Punjab government has enforced the Public Parks, Greenbelts and Green Areas Protection & Regulated Emergency Transplantation Regulations 2026 across the province, granting special protected status to ecologically significant trees.
According to officials, the new regulations are designed to safeguard trees located in public parks, greenbelts, and other designated green areas from illegal cutting and unnecessary removal, while promoting sustainable urban development.
Under the rules, trees identified as environmentally important cannot be cut or transplanted without prior approval from the relevant authority. Even in emergency situations, transplantation will be strictly regulated to ensure minimal ecological damage.
Authorities stated that development projects will now be required to incorporate tree protection measures, including environmental impact assessments and compensatory plantation plans, making green preservation a mandatory component of urban planning.
Officials warned that strict legal action would be taken against violators involved in unauthorized tree cutting or damage, signaling a zero-tolerance policy towards environmental negligence.
Environmental experts have welcomed the initiative, noting that protecting mature trees is critical in combating rising urban temperatures, reducing air pollution, and maintaining ecological balance.
Public circles have also appreciated the move, expressing hope that effective implementation of these regulations will help preserve green spaces and improve the overall urban environment across Punjab.

Rawalpindi | ReNews Pakistan
The Anti-Corruption Circle of the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) Islamabad conducted a targeted operation in Rawalpindi to recover Evacuee Trust Property Board (ETPB) assets and other government properties from illegal occupants.
According to an FIA spokesperson, the operation was carried out under the directives of Federal Interior Minister Syed Mohsin Naqvi and Director General FIA Dr. Usman Anwar as part of a nationwide campaign to reclaim government land and assets from unlawful possession.
A dedicated team was constituted on the instructions of Director FIA Islamabad Zone Shahzad Nadeem Bukhari and Deputy Director Mir Faizanul Haq. The operation was led by Assistant Director FIA Shahid Ilyas and SHO Anti-Corruption Circle Shahzad Sarwar Khakwani.
The team targeted abandoned Evacuee Trust properties located in the Tyre Bazaar area within the jurisdiction of Ganj Mandi Police Station. During the operation, all illegally occupied shops and properties were sealed and formally handed over to the relevant authorities.
To ensure law and order, a heavy contingent of FIA personnel, along with local police, was deployed at the site, preventing any untoward incidents during the operation.
Officials stated that the action is part of a broader effort to restore state ownership of public assets and discourage illegal encroachments.
Local residents welcomed the move, expressing support for continued operations against illegal occupants and emphasizing the need for strict enforcement of the law to safeguard public property and ensure transparent land management.

Lahore: ReNews Pakistan
The Punjab government has decided in principle to restore the original names of roads, streets, and historic educational institutions, in a move aimed at preserving the province’s cultural and historical identity. However, authorities have yet to finalise a comprehensive plan regarding the revival of the historic cricket ground and wrestling arena at Minto Park.
According to official sources, the initiative will particularly focus on prominent colleges in Lahore, many of which were renamed over time. The government is reviewing historical records to ensure that original names reflecting the institutions’ legacy are reinstated accurately.
Officials said the proposal is part of a broader policy to highlight Punjab’s heritage and colonial-era landmarks, while also promoting awareness among the younger generation about the historical significance of these sites.
Meanwhile, discussions are ongoing regarding the restoration of Minto Park’s traditional sports facilities, once known for hosting cricket matches and wrestling events. Authorities acknowledged the cultural importance of these venues but said that financial, technical, and planning aspects are still being evaluated before any formal approval is granted.
Urban development experts have welcomed the move, stating that restoring historical names can strengthen cultural identity, but stressed the need for clear implementation strategies to avoid administrative confusion.
The government is expected to finalise a phased execution plan in the coming weeks, outlining timelines and departments responsible for the restoration process.