The Maryam Nawaz Sohna Punjab Scheme is a historic development program launched by the Punjab government to completely overhaul urban infrastructure in 51 cities and transform 7,500 villages into model rural settlements by June 2026. This guide covers everything you need to know, from the complete list of cities and villages to the budget, helplines, and monitoring mechanisms.
Key Takeaways
- Massive Scale: The scheme targets 5,887 km of new sewerage lines and over 33,000 manhole covers across 51 cities.
- Rural Transformation: Phase II of the Model Village Project will add 7,500 villages for development, building on 485 already underway.
- Transparency Tools: Provincial and district-level control rooms enable real-time monitoring, with the 1336 helpline for water complaints.
- Historic Budget: Gujranwala received a Rs42.62 billion package, while the overall PDP program is valued at over Rs304 billion.
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Maryam Nawaz Sohna Punjab Scheme (51 Cities & 7,500 Villages List)
Table Of Contents
1. Understanding the Core Vision: Objectives and Scope of the Maryam Nawaz Sohna Punjab Scheme
The primary objective of the Maryam Nawaz Sohna Punjab Scheme is to systematically enhance urban living conditions while bridging the rural-urban development gap by providing modern civic amenities in every city and village across Punjab. This flagship initiative, managed under the Punjab Development Program (PDP), goes beyond cosmetic fixes to address foundational infrastructure like sewage, drainage, and water supply, ensuring a “Sohna” (beautiful) Punjab for all citizens.
What specific goals has the Punjab government set for the 51 cities under the Sohna Punjab Scheme?
The goals for the 51 cities are tangible and measurable. The government aims to construct 5,887 kilometers of new sewerage lines and 181 kilometers of storm water drains. This will be accompanied by the installation of over 33,000 new manhole covers and the production of durable HDPE pipes. Beyond this, 100 kilometers of urban roads will be paved, and 34 underground water recharge wells will be built to harvest 32 million gallons of water, directly mitigating urban flooding.
What is the “Model Village Programme” and how does it connect to the 7,500 villages target?
The Model Village Programme is the rural counterpart to the urban development drive. Its core mission is to provide urban-style facilities in rural areas. The connection is direct: Phase I covers 485 villages with a cost exceeding Rs59 billion. Phase II, approved in April, expands this vision to an additional 7,500 villages, creating a total target of nearly 8,000 modernized rural settlements. The goal is uniform development across Punjab, ensuring no village is left behind.
How does the “One Punjab, One Standard” project relate to the scheme’s urban beautification goals?
The “One Punjab, One Standard” philosophy ensures that development quality is uniform, whether in a major city like Lahore or a smaller city like Bhakkar. This standard applies to the materials used (e.g., colored tuff tiles for streets), the depth of sewerage work, and the beautification of parks and public spaces. It eliminates the previous disparity in development quality between different regions of the province.
What is the official timeline and deadline for the first phase of the Sohna Punjab scheme?
The official deadline for completing the first phase of the Sohna Punjab scheme is June 2026. Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has directed authorities to prioritize sewerage systems and essential infrastructure to meet this target. Work orders have already been issued for 46 out of 51 cities, with development work actively underway to ensure on-time delivery.
What is the “Suthra Punjab” cleaning drive, and is it officially part of the Sohna Punjab initiative?
Yes, the Suthra Punjab cleaning drive is an integral precursor and complementary component to the Sohna Punjab initiative. While Suthra Punjab focused on sanitation and solid waste management, the Sohna Punjab scheme builds on that foundation by investing in permanent infrastructure like sewerage lines, drainage channels, and water filtration plants to ensure long-term cleanliness.
Who is the key leadership behind the Sohna Punjab Scheme?
The scheme is personally overseen by Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, who has assumed direct monitoring of the Punjab Development Plan. The Local Government Department, under Minister Zeeshan Rafique, is the primary executing agency, responsible for supervising municipal services schemes across all 51 cities.
2. The Complete List and Development Plans for the 51 Cities Under Maryam Nawaz Sohna Punjab Scheme
While the Local Government Department manages a dynamic list, major development work is confirmed to be active in a core group of 51 cities, including Multan, Gujranwala, Dera Ghazi Khan, Bhakkar, Vehari, Sheikhupura, Kasur, Wazirabad, Sargodha, Lahore, and Pattoki. The projects are city-specific, ranging from massive sewerage overhauls to targeted beautification and health facility upgrades.
Multan: What specific infrastructure improvements are being made to sewerage, roads, and pumps?
Multan is receiving a comprehensive overhaul. The plan includes the construction of 232 kilometers of new sewerage lines. To support this, 81 pumps and 51 generators will be installed to ensure efficient wastewater disposal. On the roads front, 64 kilometers of urban roads will be developed, with specific focus on the expansion and beautification of major arteries like Boson Road, Khanewal Road, Shujaabad Road, and Nishtar Road.
Gujranwala: What is included in the city’s largest-ever development package under this scheme?
Gujranwala has received a historic development package worth Rs42.62 billion, the largest in the city’s history. The key components include laying 131 kilometers of new sewerage lines and 2 kilometers of drainage lines. A significant addition is a new wastewater treatment plant, along with 16 machinery units for sanitation. The project aims to deliver development at the street and neighborhood level, ensuring every citizen benefits.
Dera Ghazi Khan: How will the Sohna Punjab Scheme improve sewerage, drainage, and agriculture?
Dera Ghazi Khan is seeing a transformation with sewerage and drainage systems worth over Rs12 billion. The plan is divided into two zones and includes the construction and rehabilitation of 140 kilometers of sewerage lines. In a unique move, the Manika Canal is being converted into an agricultural canal, directly benefiting the local farming community by improving water supply for crops.
Bhakkar: What innovative solar-powered disposal stations are being installed?
Bhakkar is a model for green infrastructure under the scheme. The city will see the installation of a 42-inch diameter sewerage line and 100 new manholes. However, the standout feature is the construction of new solar-powered disposal stations. These stations will be complemented by the development of new parks, walkways, and public washrooms, making Bhakkar a showcase for sustainable development.
Sheikhupura and Kasur: How are beautification and health facilities being revamped?
Sheikhupura is receiving a Rs48 billion development package, focusing on 95 kilometers of new sewerage lines and expedited city beautification projects. In Kasur, the focus has been on social infrastructure. The District Headquarters (DHQ) Hospital has been revamped, and sanitation services are being enhanced. The Chief Minister has also ordered the urgent restoration of the sewerage system in Pattoki, a key town in the Kasur district.
Vehari: What development projects worth Rs6.7 billion are underway?
Vehari has a dedicated development package worth Rs6.7 billion. The focus here is on comprehensive infrastructure and civic management, ensuring that the city’s roads, drainage, and public amenities are brought up to the “One Punjab, One Standard” benchmark.
What are the infrastructure plans for other major cities like Lahore, Sargodha, and Wazirabad?
While specific details vary, all 51 cities, including Lahore, Sargodha, and Wazirabad, are covered under the PDP. Plans include master planning for 200 cities, provision of desilting and jetting machines, and strengthening of sanitation systems. Work orders for cities like Kamoke, Bhalwal, Chak Jhumra, Khudian, and Kabirwala were issued to ensure no city is left behind.
Will the Sohna Punjab scheme address urban flooding during monsoon seasons?
Yes, addressing urban flooding is a core objective. The scheme includes the construction of 358 roadside underground storage tanks (UGSTs) and 34 underground water recharge wells. These structures have a combined capacity to collect over 94 million gallons of rainwater (62 million from UGSTs and 32 million from recharge wells), preventing streets from becoming waterlogged during monsoons.
What are “underground storage tanks,” and how many are being built under this plan?
Underground Storage Tanks (UGSTs) are large, buried reservoirs designed to capture and store stormwater runoff, preventing it from flooding roads and neighborhoods. Under the Sohna Punjab scheme, 358 roadside UGSTs are being constructed. Excavation for these tanks has been completed at most locations, marking significant progress in the fight against urban flooding.
How many kilometers of sewerage lines are planned for the 51 cities?
A total of 5,887 kilometers of new sewerage lines are planned for construction across the 51 cities. This massive network will significantly improve waste management, prevent sewage from flowing into streets, and reduce waterborne diseases.
How many new manhole covers are being provided under the Sohna Punjab program?
Over 33,000 new manhole covers are being installed as part of the program. This ensures that the new sewerage network is safe, accessible for maintenance, and prevents accidents caused by open or broken manholes.
What are “HDPE pipes,” and why are they being used for the new sewerage lines?
HDPE stands for High-Density Polyethylene. These pipes are being used because they are more durable, flexible, and resistant to corrosion and leakage than traditional concrete or metal pipes. Their production is progressing rapidly to ensure the new sewerage lines are long-lasting and less prone to collapse, reducing the need for frequent repairs.
What are “coloured tuff tiles,” and where will they be installed?
Coloured tuff tiles are durable, aesthetic paving stones used for street surfaces. Under the scheme, these tiles are being used to pave streets in model villages and beautification projects in cities. They provide a clean, uniform, and visually appealing surface that is also strong enough to withstand heavy use, replacing old, broken asphalt or dirt roads.
3. The Model Village Programme: Transforming 7,500 Rural Settlements
The selection of villages for the Model Village Programme is being carried out across all 10 divisions of Punjab, with Phase I covering 485 villages and Phase II expanding to an additional 7,500. Citizens can check the official lists through the Local Government Department, district administration offices, and the PRMSC. This program aims to end the disparity between rural and urban life by providing essential facilities in every selected village.
What is the “Model Village Programme” under the Maryam Nawaz Sohna Punjab Scheme?
The Model Village Programme is a rural development initiative designed to provide urban-style amenities in selected villages. It is a key pillar of the “Maryam Nawaz Ka Sohna Punjab” program. The goal is to transform villages into model settlements with clean water, modern drainage, paved streets, parks, and improved sanitation.
What is the difference between Phase 1 and Phase 2 of the Model Village Programme?
Phase 1 of the Model Village Programme involves work on 485 villages, with an estimated cost exceeding Rs59 billion. This phase is already progressing rapidly. Phase 2, approved in principle by Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, expands the scope to an additional 7,500 villages. Phase 2 will include cluster-based water supply schemes and digital monitoring for transparency, building on the lessons learned from Phase 1.
How can a villager verify if their village is on the official Sohna Punjab 7,500 villages list?
Villagers can verify their village’s inclusion through the following channels:
- Official Portals: The Local Government Department’s official website and the Punjab Rural Municipal Services Company (PRMSC) portal will host the list.
- District Offices: Citizens can visit their District Commissioner’s office or the Local Government office for a physical copy of the list.
- Public Announcements: The government issues public notifications through newspapers and local media.
What are the specific amenities promised for every house in the 7,500 model villages?
Every house in the model villages is promised access to:
- Clean Drinking Water: Provided through new water filtration plants and solar-powered tube wells.
- Modern Drainage: Construction of covered drains to eliminate stagnant wastewater.
- Paved Streets: Streets paved with durable colored tuff tiles.
- Parks: Development of children’s parks and green spaces.
- Street Lights: Installation of solar-powered or electric street lights.
How will the scheme improve sanitation and waste management in rural areas?
Sanitation will be improved through a multi-pronged approach. First, all stagnant wastewater ponds (chhappar) will be cleaned. Second, new sewerage lines and drainage systems will be constructed. Third, septic tanks will be established for natural water filtration. Finally, solar-powered disposal stations will be installed in larger villages to manage solid waste.
What is the target date for cleaning all stagnant wastewater ponds in the villages?
The Chief Minister has set a strict target of June 30, 2026, for cleaning all stagnant wastewater ponds (chhappar) in the target villages. This is a critical first step in eliminating breeding grounds for mosquitoes and preventing waterborne diseases.
Will the Sohna Punjab scheme cover the renovation of parks and green spaces in villages?
Yes, the renovation and construction of parks and green spaces is a standard component of the model village makeover. Alongside the construction of streets and drains, each selected village will receive a children’s park and other recreational green spaces to improve the quality of life for rural residents.
Are solar-powered disposal stations being installed in rural areas?
Yes, solar-powered disposal stations are being installed, particularly in larger villages like those in the Bhakkar region. These stations provide a sustainable and cost-effective way to manage solid waste, aligning with the scheme’s focus on green and renewable energy solutions.
What is the “1336” helpline used for in the Sohna Punjab scheme?
The 1336 helpline is a dedicated, 24/7 service for the immediate resolution of complaints regarding water filtration plants. Citizens in both cities and model villages can call 1336 or send a message via WhatsApp to report any issues with their local water filtration plant, ensuring prompt maintenance and uninterrupted access to clean water.
How is the government ensuring quality and transparency in the Model Village Programme?
The government is using a robust digital monitoring system to ensure quality. Key features include:
- Digital Dashboard: A public dashboard tracks the completion status of projects.
- Before-and-After Videos: Authorities are required to submit comparative visual documentation of each upgraded village.
- Cluster-Based Monitoring: The program is monitored at the cluster level to ensure uniform standards.
- Control Rooms: Provincial and district-level control rooms enable real-time supervision.
What are some specific villages selected in the Rawalpindi division for the model makeover?
In the Rawalpindi division, several villages have been selected for the model makeover. Examples include Changa Bangial in Gujar Khan, Salamabad in Kallar Syedan, and Jawa village in the Kahuta area. The project in this division aims to provide quality infrastructure in rural parts of the Rawalpindi region.
How many villages from each division are included in the Model Village Programme?
The distribution of villages is based on population and need. While the exact numbers are dynamic, examples from Phase I allocations include:
- Sargodha Division: 39 villages
- Sahiwal Division: 44 villages
- Gujranwala Division: 53 villages
- Multan Division: 62 villages
This structured approach ensures equitable distribution of development resources across all regions.
4. Financial Breakdown: Budget, Savings, and Resource Allocation
The estimated cost for the Model Village Programme alone exceeds Rs59 billion for Phase I, while the overall Punjab Development Programme (PDP) encompassing the 51 cities has a total estimated cost of Rs304 billion. The government has already saved Rs25 billion through transparent e-tendering, which will be reinvested into the same program to expand its scope and impact.
What is the total budget allocation for the entire Sohna Punjab Scheme?
The total value of approved projects under the Punjab Development Programme (PDP) is Rs302 billion, with the total estimated cost of the program set at Rs304 billion. For the next fiscal year, it is hoped that an additional Rs150 billion will be allocated specifically for the Model Village Program. Gujranwala alone received a historic allocation of Rs42.62 billion.
How much money has been saved through transparent e-tendering in the initial phase?
The government has saved Rs25 billion through the implementation of transparent e-tendering processes in the initial phase of the project. This saving was achieved by eliminating corruption and middlemen, ensuring that government funds are used directly for development work.
How will the saved funds be reallocated within the Sohna Punjab program?
The Rs25 billion saved through e-tendering will be spent directly on the same program. This means the savings will be used to expand the scope of work, potentially adding more villages to the model village list or enhancing the quality of infrastructure in the 51 cities, rather than being diverted to other non-development expenses.
What is the budget for the “Sarkain Bahal Punjab Khushal” program in relation to this scheme?
While the “Sarkain Bahal Punjab Khushal” program is a separate flagship initiative focused specifically on roads, it complements the Sohna Punjab scheme. The Sohna Punjab scheme includes the paving of 100 kilometers of roads and streets in the first phase, aligning with the broader road rehabilitation goals of the provincial government.
Are there any hidden costs or taxes for citizens to benefit from the Sohna Punjab program?
No, there are no hidden costs or taxes for citizens. The Sohna Punjab program is a government-funded infrastructure development initiative. It is not a relief or financial aid scheme requiring registration or payment from citizens. All costs are borne by the provincial government through its development budget.
How does the budget for the Sohna Punjab Scheme compare to previous development initiatives?
The Sohna Punjab Scheme is one of the largest and most comprehensive development initiatives in the province’s history. The scale of the sewerage work (5,887 km) and the number of villages targeted (7,500) far exceed previous isolated development projects. The Gujranwala package (Rs42.62 billion) is the largest in that city’s history, signifying an unprecedented level of investment.
5. Transparency, Monitoring, and Public Grievance Mechanisms
Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz is personally monitoring the progress of the 51 cities and 7,500 villages through a sophisticated system of digital dashboards and control rooms. Provincial and district-level control rooms have been established for real-time monitoring and swift resolution of public issues, ensuring that the massive investment translates into visible, on-the-ground results.
What is the role of the Local Government Department in executing this scheme?
The Local Government Department is the primary executing agency responsible for supervising and completing all municipal services schemes in the 51 cities. They manage the tendering process, oversee contractors, and ensure that projects adhere to the “One Punjab, One Standard” quality guidelines. The department also coordinates with District Commissioners to align city-specific plans.
Is there a dashboard available for the public to track project completion status?
Yes, a digital monitoring dashboard is being implemented to allow the public and government officials to track project completion status in real-time. Municipal Officers have been directed to upload their progress to this dashboard, ensuring transparency. This system will display before-and-after videos and key performance indicators for each city and village.
How are the provincial and district control rooms helping with public complaints?
The control rooms serve as operational hubs for real-time supervision. They enable rapid identification of project delays or quality issues. Citizens can direct their complaints regarding sanitation, broken water lines, or project corruption to these control rooms, which then coordinate with field teams for immediate resolution. This system ensures accountability at all levels.
How can local residents report corruption or delays in the Sohna Punjab projects?
Local residents have multiple channels to report corruption or delays:
- 1336 Helpline: Dedicated for water filtration plant complaints but can guide citizens to the right department.
- District Control Rooms: Each district has a control room number publicized by the Local Government Department.
- Official Dashboard: The public monitoring dashboard includes a grievance redressal mechanism.
What is the digital monitoring system and how does it use before-and-after videos?
The digital monitoring system is a technology-driven oversight tool. Contractors and government officers are required to upload geotagged before-and-after videos of each upgraded street, sewerage line, and village. This visual documentation provides undeniable proof of work completion and quality, preventing false reporting and ensuring that the transformation is visible and verifiable.
What is the “One Day, One Union Council” deep cleaning operation?
The “One Day, One Union Council” is an intensive deep-cleaning operation under the Suthra Punjab drive. The goal is to ensure that every Union Council (a sub-division of a district) undergoes a complete sanitation blitz within a single day, clearing solid waste, cleaning drains, and spraying for insects. This operation supports the long-term infrastructure goals of the Sohna Punjab scheme.
Are there any jobs being created through these massive infrastructure projects?
Yes, the Sohna Punjab Scheme is a significant source of job creation. Employment is being generated in multiple sectors:
- Construction: Direct jobs for laborers, masons, and engineers for sewerage and road work.
- Manufacturing: Jobs in the production of HDPE pipes and colored tuff tiles.
- Sanitation: Permanent positions for sanitation workers and machinery operators for the new disposal stations.
- Project Management: Roles for monitoring, quality control, and administration.
How is Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz ensuring transparency and accountability in the tendering process?
Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has enforced a strict policy of transparent e-tendering for all contracts. This has eliminated the traditional “pick and choose” method of awarding contracts, which was prone to corruption. By moving the entire process online and making bids publicly verifiable, the government has ensured that the lowest qualified bidder wins, saving Rs25 billion in the process.
6. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About the Maryam Nawaz Sohna Punjab Scheme
Does the Sohna Punjab scheme include the construction of new roads in rural areas?
Yes, the scheme includes the construction of 100 kilometers of new roads and streets in the first phase, specifically targeting rural areas and neighborhoods to ensure safer and more dignified living conditions.
Will every house in the 7,500 model villages get clean drinking water?
Yes, every house will have access to clean drinking water through the installation of new water filtration plants and solar-powered tube wells, with the 1336 helpline ensuring these plants remain operational.
Which major roads in Multan and Gujranwala are being rehabilitated under this plan?
In Multan, major roads including Boson Road, Khanewal Road, Shujaabad Road, and Nishtar Road are being expanded and beautified. In Gujranwala, the entire sewerage and road network is being upgraded as part of the city’s largest-ever development package.
Will the scheme improve the conditions of District Headquarters (DHQ) hospitals?
Yes, the revamping of DHQ Hospital Kasur has been cited as a key achievement, and the scheme includes provisions for improving health facilities in other districts as part of the broader civic management upgrade.
What is the deadline for the first phase of the Sohna Punjab scheme?
The official deadline for the completion of the first phase, including the 51 cities and initial model villages, is June 2026.
Is there a registration process for citizens to benefit from the Sohna Punjab program?
No, this is not a registration-based financial aid scheme. It is an infrastructure development program. However, citizens can use helplines and control rooms to report issues and request service delivery.
Which cities are being prioritized for sewerage and drainage system upgrades?
All 51 cities are being upgraded, but major packages are actively underway in Multan, Gujranwala, Dera Ghazi Khan, Bhakkar, Sheikhupura, Kasur, Vehari, and Wazirabad.
How can I find the complete and updated list of 51 cities and 7,500 villages?
You can find the updated list on the official website of the Local Government Department, the PRMSC portal, or by contacting your local District Commissioner’s office.
What is the expected date for the completion of the entire Sohna Punjab Scheme?
The first phase is targeted for completion by June 2026. Subsequent phases, including the full transformation of 7,500 villages, will follow, with significant budget allocations expected in the next fiscal year.
Will the Sohna Punjab scheme address the issue of dirty water in rural areas?
Yes, the scheme directly addresses dirty water by cleaning all stagnant wastewater ponds (chhappar) by June 30, 2026, and establishing septic tanks for natural water filtration, alongside providing clean drinking water.
Disclaimer: This information is based on official government announcements, news reports, and public records. Readers are advised to verify specific details through official government channels.
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