Punjab Government Announces Free Travel for Students, Senior Citizens, and Differently-Abled Individuals

In a landmark decision aimed at enhancing social welfare and public mobility, the Punjab government has introduced a free travel facility for students, senior citizens, and differently-abled individuals across the province. The initiative, approved during a Provincial Cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, is part of the government’s broader effort to provide financial relief and improve accessibility in public transport.

Key Decisions from the Provincial Cabinet Meeting

The free transport initiative is just one of several major decisions taken during the meeting. Other significant approvals included:

1. Measures to Reduce Chicken Prices

Recognizing the impact of inflation on daily essentials, the Chief Minister directed authorities to implement measures to lower the price of chicken, offering relief to consumers facing rising food costs.

2. Formation of Special Investigation Units for Sexual Crimes

To enhance public safety and prevent crimes, the Cabinet approved the establishment of special investigation units dedicated to handling sexual crimes, ensuring swift and effective justice.

3. Infrastructure and Aviation Development

Several aviation-related projects received approval, including:

• New airports in Bhakkar and Bahawalnagar to improve regional connectivity.
• An airstrip in Bhakkar to support air ambulance services, enhancing medical emergency response.
• Proposal review for Punjab’s own airline service, which could significantly boost the province’s transportation sector.

4. Reforms in Education and Legal System

• Agreement with the World Bank to introduce a new student grading system.
• One-year waiver on birth and death certificate fees, making essential documentation more accessible.
• Free legal aid for underprivileged citizens, thanks to amendments in the Punjab Legal Aid Rules.

5. Stricter Laws and Increased Penalties

The government has taken steps to strengthen law enforcement through:

• Higher fines for violations of the Punjab Fertilizer Control Act to regulate agricultural inputs.
• Stricter penalties for illegal weapon possession, ensuring better public safety under the Punjab Arms Ordinance.

6. Job Creation and Social Inclusion

To promote employment and inclusivity:

• 3,904 new posts were approved for the Punjab Crime Control Department, strengthening law enforcement.
• 664 visually impaired individuals were hired on daily wages, ensuring better economic opportunities for differently-abled citizens.

7. Green Pakistan Initiative – Cholistan Watercourse Lining Project

The Cabinet approved the Cholistan watercourse lining project under the Green Pakistan Initiative, aiming to improve water conservation and agricultural sustainability in the region.

The Punjab government’s latest decisions reflect a strong commitment to public welfare, law enforcement, education, and infrastructure development. From free travel facilities to aviation projects and legal aid reforms, these measures aim to create a more inclusive and sustainable province.

With enhanced accessibility, stricter crime control policies, and economic relief initiatives, Punjab is set to move toward a more progressive and people-centric governance model.

Afsheen Gohar

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