Metro Bus project will revolutionise transport sector: Shahbaz

Punjab Chief Minister (CM) Shahbaz Sharif has said that temporary difficulties being faced by the citizens during construction of the metro bus project are soon going to change into permanent relief as this project will bring about a revolution in the transport history of Pakistan. He said that the metro bus system would result in speedy, comfortable and economical travelling facilities to the common man. He further said that after inauguration of the project, free transport service would be provided to the travelers for a few days.
He also said that this public welfare project was soon to be completed and would bring about a great cultural change in the public transport system. Moreover, he said that the project would rid the people of transport problems and they would be able to reach their destination in the shortest possible time.
Lahore Transport Company Chairman Khawaja Ahmad Hassaan, Assembly Members Ramzan Bhatti, Muhammad Nauman, BRT Project Director, Lahore Division commissioner, LDA DG and others were also present on the occasion.
The CM reviewed the pace of work at different sections from Gajjumatta to Civil Secretariat. The CM said that round the clock work was being carried out on the project. He also said that he was aware of the problems of the people but after the completion of this splendid project, their temporary difficulties would change into lasting relief. He said that the metro bus project had been evolved for the benefit of the common man and the poor people as he believed that they have as much right over national resources as the rich.
Furthermore, he said that the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) government was taking practical steps to remove the disparity between the rich and poor and metro bus project was a practical step in this direction. Therefore, he said, the fare rate of metro bus would be kept within the reach of the common man for enabling him to easily avail this modern transport facility.
The CM also said that excellent arrangements have been made to facilitate the people during the construction of metro bus project route and the construction work of Kalma Chowk underpass, while the construction work of the roads along the project was also being completed expeditiously. The CM during his visit directed the authorities concerned and contractors to complete the project at the earliest while special attention should be paid to the standard of construction work. He said that they were facing a race against time and there was no room for delays.
He further said that various tasks should be completed within the timeline. The CM directed that instead of traditional security system, a modern system based on unique and latest equipment should be introduced for metro bus project while the construction work of stations should also be completed as early as possible. Moreover, the CM issued instructions for the early completion of construction of the drain at Ferozepur Road and directed that the convenience of the people should be kept in view.
Later the CM also visited the metro bus depot and directed the contractor to complete the work quickly.
He further directed that the number of wardens should be increased for maintaining the flow of traffic during execution of the project and alternative arrangements should be made so that the citizens should not face any difficulties.
Punjab CM approves increase in conveyance allowance of govt employees
Punjab Chief Minister Shahbaz Sharif has approved the revision of conveyance allowance of Punjab government officers and officials from grade 1 to 19 with effect from July this year. Directions in this regard have been issued to the Punjab Finance Department. Additional measures would involve an annual expenditure of over Rs.12 billion under this head.