Maryam Nawaz: Punjab introduces electric bus service for rural areas

For the first time ever, electric bus services are being extended to rural areas, Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif said, reinforcing the province government’s commitment to building rural communities through enhanced infrastructure and public services.

In her message on the International Day for Rural Development, the chief minister offered tributes to the rural communities for their critical contribution to national development, agricultural production and food security. “Astrong rural economy is the only way to develop Pakistan,” she remarked.

“Villages have a pivotal role in the progress and prosperity of any country,” remarked Maryam Nawaz. She emphasised that rural areas are the real spirit of society, from supporting the agriculture industry to preserving centuries-old traditions.

The Punjab government is committed to empowering the rural populations by giving access to education, skill training, healthcare and sustainable employment opportunities, she said. She said special attention is being given to enhancing education, health care, clean drinking water, modern agriculture and basic infrastructure in rural areas of the province.

The chief minister noted these communities have great potential to improve food security, generate economic possibilities and foster long-term stability. She said: “Investing in rural populations is laying the foundation for stronger and more resilient communities.

Maryam Nawaz added that the Suthra Punjab Programme is now fully functional in villages as well as in the urban areas. She said for the first time in the history of the province, electric bus service is also being rolled out in rural areas.

The initiative of Apna Khet, Apna Rozgar has been established just for unemployed persons residing in rural areas, she added. The Model Village Project is also ongoing to offer basic urban infrastructure in over 2,400 settlements, including water filtration plants, parks and children’s playgrounds.

The chief minister said that construction and rehabilitation work on over 3,300 km of rural roads was underway through over 1,500 development projects under the Local Roads Programme. She said the Sohne Pind Punjab De initiative is also focussing on construction of paved streets, restoration of roads, setting up of children’s parks and tree plantation drives in communities.