Minister Local Government reviews Model Village Program

LAHORE, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 22nd Apr, 2026) Punjab’s Minister for Local Government Zeeshan Rafique has said that the Model Village Program, launched under the Chief Minister’s vision, is a flagship development initiative of the Maryam Nawaz government, with implementation already underway in 485 villages in the first phase.

He made these remarks while chairing a review meeting on the Model Village Program at the Civil Secretariat. The meeting was attended by Secretary Local Government Shakeel Ahmed Mian, Special Secretary Arshad Baig, and Punjab Rural Municipal Services Company (PRMSC) CEO Khurram Pervez, who briefed participants on ongoing progress.

The minister said that approximately 4 million people will benefit in the first phase through improved water supply systems, sewerage infrastructure, and the paving of village streets. He noted that the Punjab government has allocated Rs60 billion for this initial phase, reflecting what he described as a strong commitment to rural development.

For the first time under a provincial village development initiative, the program also includes the construction of children’s parks and installation of streetlights in rural areas.

Rafique further highlighted that the restoration of traditional village ponds is a key component of the project, aimed at preserving rural heritage while improving environmental and community spaces.

He directed deputy commissioners to ensure the provision of necessary machinery for timely execution of works and emphasized that PRMSC is actively monitoring contractors’ performance. He also urged district administrative officers to extend full cooperation to PRMSC teams to maintain efficiency and transparency in implementation.

Zeeshan Rafique added that the scope of the Model Village Program will be expanded in phases. He said the Chief Minister has directed that an additional 7,500 villages across Punjab be gradually developed into model villages under the same framework.

During the meeting, he also instructed the Special Secretary to ensure adequate human resource allocation so that the program can be implemented effectively and without delays.