Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has granted in-principle approval for the second phase of the Model Village Program, aiming to uplift rural areas across the province.

The initiative is designed to reduce the gap between urban and rural living standards by providing essential facilities in villages and improving overall quality of life. Officials say the program will focus on infrastructure, clean water, and better public services.

Chairing a special meeting on model villages and clean water projects, the chief minister reviewed progress and directed authorities to speed up implementation. She emphasized the need for timely completion and called for improved coordination among departments.

During the briefing, officials informed that work is already underway to convert 485 villages into model villages under the program. The first phase alone is expected to cost more than Rs 59 billion, highlighting the scale of the initiative.

Maryam Nawaz also instructed departments to introduce a digital monitoring system to ensure transparency and effective oversight of development work. The system will help track progress and address delays more efficiently.

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Reaffirming her government’s commitment, the chief minister stressed that access to clean drinking water in underdeveloped areas remains a top priority. She said the government is determined to eliminate deprivation in rural communities and bring them at par with urban centers.

Analysts view the move as a significant step toward rural development, which could improve living conditions and create new opportunities for residents across Punjab.