LAHORE (Dunya News) – Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif said that electric bus services are being extended to rural areas for the first time in history, reaffirming the provincial government's commitment to strengthening rural communities through improved infrastructure and public services.
In her message on the International Day for Rural Development, the chief minister paid tribute to rural communities for their vital contribution to national development, agricultural production and food security. She said a strong rural economy is the foundation of a developed Pakistan.
Maryam Nawaz said villages play a fundamental role in the progress and prosperity of any country. From supporting the agriculture sector to preserving centuries-old traditions, she said rural communities represent the true spirit of society.
She stated that the Punjab government is committed to empowering rural communities by providing access to education, skills training, healthcare and sustainable employment opportunities. She added that special focus is being placed on improving education, healthcare, clean drinking water, modern agriculture and basic infrastructure across rural areas of the province.
The chief minister said villages have immense potential to strengthen food security, create economic opportunities and promote long-term stability. She added that investment in rural populations is equivalent to laying the foundation for stronger and more resilient communities.
Maryam Nawaz said the Suthra Punjab Programme is now fully operational in villages alongside urban areas. She added that electric bus services are also being introduced in rural regions for the first time in the province's history.
She said the Apna Khet, Apna Rozgar scheme has been launched exclusively for unemployed people living in rural areas. Work is also underway on the Model Village Project to provide basic urban facilities in more than 2,400 villages, including water filtration plants, parks and children's playgrounds.
The chief minister added that under the Local Roads Programme, construction and rehabilitation work on more than 3,300 kilometres of rural roads is continuing through over 1,500 development projects. She said the Sohne Pind Punjab De programme is also focusing on building paved streets, restoring roads, establishing children's parks and carrying out tree plantation drives in villages.