Punjab Government Rolls Out 1 Free Solar Panels for Citizens Under Roshan Gharana Programme

In a significant step towards providing relief to the citizens of Punjab, the provincial government has approved the Chief Minister Roshan Gharana Programme, which will provide free solar panels to protected electricity consumers using up to 100 units per month. This initiative, part of a broader effort to alleviate the burden of rising electricity costs, was announced during the 13th meeting of the Provincial Cabinet, chaired by Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif.

Major Relief in Electricity Bills

Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif highlighted the government’s commitment to reducing electricity costs for the public, announcing that a massive project will be launched within the next two months to provide further relief in electricity bills. The Roshan Gharana Programme is a cornerstone of this effort, aiming to provide sustainable and cost-effective energy solutions to lower-income households across Punjab. By installing solar home solutions, the government hopes to significantly reduce the reliance on traditional electricity sources, thereby cutting down monthly utility bills for thousands of families.

“Apni Chhat, Apna Ghar” Housing Initiative

In addition to the solar panel program, the Provincial Cabinet also approved the model house design for the “Apni Chhat, Apna Ghar” project. Under this initiative, the government will provide Rs 1.5 million in financial assistance to individuals building homes on plots up to 5 Marla in urban areas and 10 Marla in rural areas. Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has directed that no monthly instalments be collected for the first three months of the scheme to ease the financial burden on the borrowers.

Electric Buses to Hit Punjab Roads

The Cabinet meeting also discussed plans to introduce electric buses in Punjab as part of the government’s ongoing efforts to modernize public transportation. Following the success of Speedo buses, 27 electric buses are set to arrive in Lahore by December. A model of the electric bus was presented during the meeting, signaling the government’s commitment to sustainable and eco-friendly transportation solutions.

Establishment of Punjab Grid Company for Industrial Growth

The Provincial Cabinet approved the establishment of the Punjab Grid Company, a key initiative aimed at directly supplying electricity to industries. This move is part of a broader strategy to provide affordable electricity to industrial parks through direct transmission lines from Bhiki, Balloki, and Quaid-e-Azam Solar Park. The initiative is expected to boost industrial growth and attract further investment in the region by ensuring a reliable and cost-effective power supply.

Overseas Pakistanis to Benefit from Enhanced Revenue Services

The Cabinet also approved an amendment to the Registration Act 1908, which will allow for the provision of revenue services to overseas Pakistanis in eight countries, including China, Saudi Arabia, UAE, UK, USA, Italy, Qatar, Bahrain, and Spain. This initiative aims to streamline land registration and the provision of important documents for overseas Pakistanis, making it easier for them to manage their affairs back home.

Promotion of Tourism: The Murree Tourist Glass Train

In a bid to promote tourism, the Cabinet gave the green light to a feasibility study for the Tourist Glass Train project, which will run from Rawalpindi to Murree. Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif emphasized that the Murree Tourist Glass Train is part of a broader vision by Muhammad Nawaz Sharif to develop the tourism sector in Punjab, offering a unique and scenic travel experience for both locals and tourists.

Punjab Government’s New Advertisement Policy

Lastly, the Cabinet approved the Punjab Government’s new Advertisement Policy, which is expected to streamline and enhance the effectiveness of government communications. This policy, along with the other initiatives discussed, reflects the Punjab Government’s proactive approach to governance, focusing on sustainable development, public welfare, and economic growth.