LAHORE, Feb 26 (APP):Punjab Health Minister Khawaja Salman Rafique has said that, in line with the vision of Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz Sharif, the journey of development and prosperity for the people will continue across the province.
He expressed these views on Thursday during his visit to the modern drainage and rainwater storage project in Tajpura B Block, PP-153, Lahore.
The provincial minister said that all ongoing development schemes in PP-153 have been directed to be completed within the stipulated timeframe. He added that the Punjab government is ensuring the provision of basic civic facilities to citizens in accordance with the vision of the chief minister. He stated that the PML-N government has consistently served the people and that under the leadership of Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif and Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, Pakistan is progressing rapidly.
Khawaja Salman Rafique said the Parks and Horticulture Authority has also been directed to restore and maintain parks in the area. He noted that the Punjab government is working swiftly on a major project aimed at rainwater harvesting, drainage improvement and groundwater restoration in Tajpura B Block.
He said, “The project, being executed at a cost of Rs 1.25 billion, is expected to provide a permanent solution to urban flooding and waterlogging during heavy rains. It has been initiated under the Department of Housing, Urban Development and Public Health Engineering, while the Water and Sanitation Agency (WASA) Lahore is responsible for its implementation, operation and maintenance. The scheme is included in the Annual Development Programme 2025-26 with an initial allocation of Rs 5 million and an estimated completion period of eight months.” Under the project, an underground RCC water tank with a capacity of 1.35 million gallons will be constructed at Amina Park, while another tank with a capacity of 2.46 million gallons will be built at Babri Park. Additionally, 2,200 running feet of RCC drainage system, force main pipelines of 630 mm and 1,000 mm diameter, four modern pumping units each with a capacity of 20 cusecs, and two underground groundwater recharge systems will be installed, he added.
The minister said the primary objective is to conserve rainwater for horticulture use and groundwater replenishment, thereby reducing pressure on existing water resources. The project will also help minimize waterlogging, surface runoff, road damage and traffic disruption during monsoon rains, while protecting public and private property.
He added that the stored water will be supplied to PHA and firefighting tankers through lorry hydrants. The initiative is being described as a significant step toward improving urban infrastructure, environmental protection and sustainable water management. Upon completion, it is expected to provide long-term relief to residents of Tajpura and adjoining areas, he added.
The provincial minister directed officials to remain present in the field to closely monitor progress and ensure immediate resolution of public complaints.
On the occasion, XEN WASA Salman, the Project Director WASA, PHA officials and other officers briefed the minister on the progress of the scheme. Former Chairman Mian Irfan, Ikhlas Shah, Riffat Hussain, Sheikh Arif, Abdul Wahab Malik and party workers were also present.