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LAHORE, Jul 09 (APP):The Housing and Urban Development Department of Punjab has unveiled a comprehensive plan aimed at reviving and enhancing urban green spaces, parks, and recreational facilities across the province.
As part of this initiative, the department has proposed a new governance and business model for Parks and Horticulture Authorities (PHAs) to ensure their financial sustainability and operational efficiency.
According to official sources, a detailed summary has been submitted to the provincial cabinet recommending the formation of a special cabinet sub-committee. This committee will oversee the functioning of PHAs and supervise the development of public recreational projects, including sports grounds, paddle tennis courts, and futsal fields.
The proposed strategy includes public-private partnerships, event-based revenue generation, nursery development, and sponsorship and advertising initiatives to help PHAs become self-reliant. This vision directly supports Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif’s broader “Clean and Green Punjab” campaign, under which PHAs are expected to play a central role in urban beautification and environmental improvement.
To support this transformation, a request for Rs. 10 billion in funding for PHAs has been submitted for approval in the current fiscal year. Officials noted that the funds will be critical not only for environmental conservation but also for upgrading public recreational facilities across Punjab.
Initially, the plan will be rolled out in 11 major cities of the province. Budget documents show that Rs. 4.757 billion have already been allocated to PHAs this year, with Rs. 3.3 billion earmarked for Lahore alone. However, the summary also highlights a significant shortfall in funding for PHAs in other cities, many of which are struggling to maintain and upgrade their urban green spaces due to limited financial resources.
Secretary Housing, Noor-ul-Amin Mengal has formally submitted the proposal to the Punjab government, marking a major step forward in the province’s drive for ecological and recreational renewal.