Punjab to Launch 81 Billion Metro Bus Service in Faisalabad

Faisalabad: As the New Year begins, the Punjab government is set to expand its urban transport network with the launch of a major metro bus service in Faisalabad, costing Rs. 81 billion, according to district and divisional authorities.

Faisalabad Division Commissioner and Administrator of the Municipal Corporation, Raja Jehangir Anwar, said the metro bus project is among several key development initiatives planned for 2025.

Reviewing the past year’s performance, Anwar said the administration faced significant challenges, particularly the June floods, which affected nearly 550 villages across Faisalabad Division. The worst-hit districts included Chiniot and Jhang, while Pir Mahal, Kamalia, and Tandlianwala also sustained damage.

On the security front, he said authorities effectively handled threats linked to a proscribed organization through coordinated efforts by the police, civil administration, and intelligence agencies, ensuring the situation remained under control without any major incidents.

Anwar also highlighted the repatriation of Afghan nationals as a major task during the year. Around 2,000 Afghan nationals were temporarily accommodated at holding centers in Faisalabad before being repatriated in accordance with government policy.

The commissioner noted that Faisalabad successfully hosted international cricket after a 17-year gap, with Pakistan and South Africa matches held over a 12-day period. He said robust security and civic arrangements ensured the smooth conduct of the events.

In the agricultural sector, Anwar said the division exceeded its wheat sowing target, completing cultivation on over 1.9 million acres, surpassing the target of 1.83 million acres.