For the first time in Punjab’s history, Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has approved the annual development program of 12 districts in a special meeting held in Lahore.

The Chief Minister emphasized the importance of eliminating encroachments and improving cleanliness, calling it a major challenge.

She said commissioners and deputy commissioners have full authority to perform without interference, but stressed the need for more improvements despite overall good performance.

Maryam Nawaz ordered a crackdown on corruption, the uplift of roads and markets, construction of model rickshaw stands, footpaths, and solar street lights.

She directed that grain and vegetable markets be shifted out of cities and called for restoring historic buildings, planting trees, and expanding urban forests.

The meeting approved the key projects including the beautification of Faisalabad’s clock tower, construction of 22 bus stops and restoration of Wali Muhammad Mosque in Multan, and major anti-encroachment drives in Sialkot, Gujranwala, and DG Khan.

A follow-up meeting for the remaining districts and ongoing beautification and encroachment removal efforts will be held on Tuesday.