An innovative step toward sustainable urban planning has taken shape in Lahore as an artificial lake with a capacity of five million gallons has been built along the newly completed CBD Route 47. It is designed in such a way that it is to store rainwater, the lake will help in managing urban flooding, recharge groundwater, and provide a scenic spot in the city’s expanding infrastructure.
Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif visited the site and analyzed the current development works and inaugurated completed sections of the project, reflecting her administration’s hands-on approach to city planning and oversight.
A Modern Road for Lahore’s Future
During her visit, officials has given briefings to the Chief Minister that Route 47—linking Kalma Chowk to Walton—had been opened to traffic. The road looks graceful and extraordinary not just for its modern design but also for its focus on sustainability and inclusivity.
It has dedicated lanes for cyclists and walkways for pedestrians, and the aim of these is to promote
- Healthier
- Eco-friendly commuting options
The Walton Railway Crossing Flyover along the route is also getting solar panels installed, with the capacity to generate one megawatt of electricity to help offset power needs sustainably.
Inspecting construction on a new bridge on Walton Road, Maryam Nawaz praised the pace of work and urged teams to maintain quality and meet deadlines.
Read more: New Karakoram Highway 62km section will have 15 tunnels and nine bridges
CM’s Vision for Sustainable Development
Speaking at the site, Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz declared:
“Route 47 is another milestone towards attaining a bright and sustainable future for Punjab. It is not just a road but highlights a new chapter of smart development in Punjab.”
Her remarks highlighted the strategy of the Gov of combining essential infrastructure with green, people-friendly design—like water storage, renewable energy, and facilities for non-motorized transport.
Commitment to Social Welfare
Beyond development projects, the Chief Minister used the occasion to issue a heartfelt message on International Widows Day.
She gathered global attention to the plight of widows in some of the conflict zones such as Kashmir, Gaza, and Iran, saying their suffering is “a big question mark on the global conscience.”
Reaffirming Punjab’s commitment to vulnerable women, Maryam Nawaz kept on emphasizing several government initiatives, including the Apni Chhat, Apna Ghar program, which prioritizes widows and single mothers for housing. She also noted that Honhaar scholarships give preference to their children, while the Women Protection Authority and Social Welfare Department work to ensure ongoing support and care.
The dual focus of CM on modern infrastructure and social welfare is showing a comprehensive vision for a progressive, caring Punjab.