The Punjab Govt may introduce sanitation charges for residential properties and increased water charges for hydropower projects.
Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif deliberated on several key proposals in the Cabinet Standing Committee for Finance and Development.
During the meeting, it was disclosed that Punjab comprises approximately 19.85 million residential and 2 million commercial units. The committee resolved to implement sanitation charges, setting the rate for homes up to 5 marlas at 300 rupees and 10 marlas at 500 rupees in urban areas. In rural regions, 10 marla homes will be charged 200 rupees, while larger residences will incur a fee of 500 rupees.
Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif also considered raising water charges for private-sector hydropower projects but ultimately rejected it due to concerns over potential increases in electricity costs. Despite recognizing the potential revenue benefits, she opposed any measures leading to higher electricity prices and instructed the municipal department to significantly reduce the proposed sanitation charges by more than 50%.
The session additionally approved an allocation of 2 crore rupees under the Green Pakistan Program and endorsed the sponsorship of Hajj for 10 older women from nursing homes. The Chief Minister expressed her intention to bid farewell to the women at the airport personally.
The meeting also covered progress on the “Own Your Home” housing project, with immediate actions directed to advance this initiative. The session, attended by the Chief Secretary of Punjab, the Principal Secretary, and Senator Pervez Rashid, concluded with the Chief Minister inaugurating a pilot project to enhance Lahore’s environmental sustainability. She also planted a tree at the new 87 Kanal Central Park in LDA Avenue One, marking the initiative’s launch.
