LAHORE: The Punjab government has announced plans to introduce a special student travel card, as revealed in a press release following a provincial cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Punjab, Maryam Nawaz Sharif.
During the meeting, several key initiatives were approved, including free travel for differently-abled individuals and senior citizens on the mass transit system. The cabinet also approved the special student travel card and directed authorities to develop a plan for launching a tram service in the province.
In line with its commitment to inclusivity, the cabinet agreed in principle to establish a dedicated transport service for differently-abled individuals across Punjab.
To boost industrialization, the cabinet approved the ‘Zero Time to Start Policy’ for Special Economic Zones, Industrial Estates, and Small Industrial Estates. This initiative aims to attract investors by ensuring immediate issuance of No Objection Certificates (NOCs) to facilitate business operations.
Another landmark decision was the approval of Rs580 million for the procurement of a “Cryoablation” machine, a cutting-edge alternative to chemotherapy for cancer patients. The Chief Minister emphasized the introduction of modern cancer treatments in Punjab’s healthcare system.
Key recruitment decisions were also made, including the hiring of 5,960 constables and the approval of 127 positions in the Mass Transit Authority. Additionally, 87 new posts were approved for the Child Protection and Welfare Bureau, and an age limit extension was granted to fill vacant doctor positions in Basic and Clinical Sciences, allowing recruitment of professionals up to 65 years of age.
The cabinet approved the hiring of 25 staff members for the ICT department in Specialized Healthcare and Medical Education, along with new positions for four Danish Schools in Tunsa and Mankera. A supplementary grant was sanctioned to recruit staff for the Forest Department, and plans were finalized to hire 500 personnel under the Traffic Management Plan in Murree.
To support low-income households, the cabinet approved Rs30 billion for the Nigahban Ramadan Package, set to benefit 30 million people. Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif announced that starting next year, an ATM card will be introduced for the package, enabling beneficiaries to receive Rs10,000 directly at home without the hassle of standing in queues.
These measures reflect the Punjab government’s commitment to improving public welfare, advancing healthcare, and fostering economic development in the province.
