In a significant move to transform the provincial capital, the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government has launched an ambitious development and rehabilitation program for Peshawar. The initiative gained momentum during a weekly governance review meeting chaired by Chief Secretary Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Shahab Ali Shah.
Comprehensive Development Plan Finalized
The high-level meeting brought together administrative secretaries in person while deputy commissioners from across the province participated through video link. Chief Secretary Shahab Ali Shah received detailed briefings about the ongoing transformation efforts under the provincial government's reform agenda.
According to officials, the Peshawar Development Authority (PDA) has completed its monthly action plan that includes multiple infrastructure improvement projects. The comprehensive plan features flyover enhancements, installation of modern lighting systems, replacement of curb stones, and restoration of green belts throughout the city. Additionally, pedestrian bridges will undergo beautification to improve urban aesthetics.
Transport and Infrastructure Upgrades
The development package extends beyond basic infrastructure to include significant transportation improvements. The Tourism Department is currently undertaking renovation of 10 BRT feeder buses and seven BRT stations to enhance public transport facilities. Road infrastructure is receiving major attention with over 120 kilometres of roads scheduled for improvement.
Major thoroughfares including Ring Road and University Road are part of the rehabilitation initiatives, with University Road scheduled for new carpeting to ensure smoother travel. The development vision also incorporates smart city interventions and a comprehensive traffic management plan to address urban mobility challenges.
Province-Wide Implementation Strategy
The meeting revealed that the development model being implemented in Peshawar will serve as a blueprint for other districts. All deputy commissioners have been directed to undertake urban improvement activities according to their available resources, following Peshawar's successful template.
Chief Secretary Shahab Ali Shah issued clear instructions for swift execution of the development package. He emphasized the need for effective coordination among all departments to ensure timely completion of projects. The chief secretary also directed deputy commissioners to complete their planning processes immediately, keeping in view the required resources for implementation.
The integrated approach includes water and sanitation service reforms, addressing critical public service delivery aspects. This multi-faceted development initiative represents one of the most comprehensive urban transformation efforts in Peshawar's recent history, aiming to significantly improve living standards and urban infrastructure in the provincial capital.
