Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has announced major development projects worth Rs 23 billion for development and prosperity of Katcha area and said that now Katcha areas will also be developed like other parts of the province.
She also issued instructions to start the “Apna Khet, Apna Rozgar” program and give 14,500 acres of government land to the local people.
The Chief Minister said that for the first time, no major incident has taken place in the Katcha area during the last five months, and now comprehensive steps are being taken to make this area safe and exemplary. Under the project, schools, hospitals, roads and bridges will be constructed, while transport facilities and clinics on wheels will also be provided.
Mobile veterinary hospitals and laboratories will also be provided under his direction.
To make security more effective, modern solar energy-powered drone surveillance is being started in Katcha, while cameras will be installed in APCs and police vans. Police stations and check posts will also be linked to the Safe City Monitoring System.
In the education sector, 6,551 female students will be provided with school mail packs, while 300 students will be given meritorious scholarships and 300 laptops. Along with the construction, rehabilitation and upgradation of 65 schools in Katcha, 16 new schools and two girls’ colleges will also be established.
For the improvement of infrastructure, 108 km of soling and 27 roads of 144 km long will be completed. In addition, the Model Village Project, Sewerage, Drainage and Sports projects will also be started, while the Skills Development Program will also be introduced at a cost of Rs 125 million.
The Chief Minister also approved the start of NADRA registration in Katcha, issuance of CNIC and B form, and hard area allowance for security personnel. A special plan has been prepared for the return of illegal weapons, which will be digitally monitored and those who return weapons will be compensated according to their nature.
Moreover, a ban has been imposed on planting tall plants on the sides of main roads.
Maryam Nawaz said that development and prosperity are the rights of every person in Katcha and the government will make this area a safe, prosperous and dignified region providing employment opportunities.