ISLAMABAD - Prime Minister Imran Khan has directed the Punjab government to take strict action against elements involved in encroaching state land and establishing illegal housing societies. Prime Minister Imran Khan said green urbanisation will help reduce adverse impacts of pollution and these models should be replicated in other cities of the country. The PM said this while chairing a meeting regarding Ravi Urban Development Authority (RUDA) and Central Business District (CBD) Lahore projects in Islamabad. He also directed to expedite process of land transfer for RUDA and CBD projects. The prime minister stated that development of green spaces in new plans and preservation in existing urban areas was necessary for mitigating impacts of pollution including smog.  The prime minister also emphasised that urban development projects were being initiated for attracting investments and should not be criticised and hindered for political reasons. He highlighted that these projects were meant for improving socio-economic conditions of the common man. The prime minister directed that environment-friendly material including smart trees, blue roads, energy efficient construction materials should be used in Central Business District Lahore. He said CBD and RUDA projects were important for future of Lahore and the country and Green Urbanisation models will be replicated in all cities to reduce pollution. The prime minister said development projects were for improving socio-economic conditions of the common man. Earlier, the meeting was apprised that physical work on both RUDA and CBD projects was in full swing and land acquisition process was near completion.

It was informed that Rs 100 billion investment was expected in CBD in the first year. 

The meeting was informed that 1,900 low cost housing units were included in the master plan of Ravi Urban Development Scheme. 

The meeting was attended by Information Minister Fawad Ahmed, Advisor Finance Shaukat Tarin, SAPM Dr Shahbaz Gill, Chairman Naya Pakistan Housing & Development Authority Lt-Gen (R) Anwar Ali Haider, Chief Secretary Punjab and senior officials.

Earlier, Chairman Board of Investment Azfar Ahsan met the Prime Minister Imran Khan and briefed him about the steps being taken for promoting foreign investment in Pakistan.

Chairman Senate Sadiq Sanjrani also called on Prime Minister and discussed matters related to Senate.