Sustainable urban development among Punjab government's top priorities:CM

LAHORE, Oct 31 (APP):Punjab Chief Minister(CM) Maryam Nawaz Sharif said on Saturday that clean, green,safe and modern cities were the fundamental right of every citizen,stressing that urban development is directly linked to improving people's quality of life. In her message on World Cities Day,she said providing modern urban facilities in Punjab's cities was among the government's top priorities. She said environment-friendly and sustainable urban development was the need of the hour, adding that the government was taking steps to improve cleanliness,drainage,traffic management and basic facilities in urban areas. The CM said modern technology could help transform cities into smart urban centers and make daily life easier for citizens. She stressed that keeping cities clean, beautiful and free from encroachments was a collective responsibility, while public participation and responsible behaviour were essential for sustainable urban development. CM Maryam Nawaz said urban planning should ensure equal access to facilities and opportunities for all segments of society. She said the government was committed to leaving behind greener,safer and more sustainable cities for future generations.