Islamabad: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has directed the authorities concerned to complete the ongoing low-cost housing projects at the earliest. He issued these directives while chairing a review meeting of the projects being carried out by the Ministry of Housing and Works in Islamabad today.

According to Radio Pakistan, the Prime Minister also emphasized collaboration with the private sector to enhance investment in the housing projects. He instructed to ensure validation by a third party for Federal government housing projects. Shehbaz Sharif stated that construction companies with an international reputation should be selected for projects aimed at government employees and the public. He insisted on a transparent and merit-based selection process for these construction projects.

The Prime Minister further instructed that all construction projects should be completed within their stipulated timelines. The meeting also discussed the dissolution of the Pakistan Public Works Department (PWD) and other dysfunctional institutions. The Prime Minister expressed satisfaction over the reduction in corruption due to these dissolutions and welcomed the digitization of the housing allotment system for government employees.

He reassured that every possible measure will be taken to provide low-cost accommodation to every citizen of Pakistan. Reforms are underway to curb corruption in projects designed to provide affordable housing. The Prime Minister also requested a comprehensive plan from the Ministry of Housing to provide international standard facilities to the public and directed the formulation and approval of the National Housing Policy by March.

Shehbaz Sharif highlighted that Pakistan’s global image has been restored due to governmental efforts, with the country now hosting international cricket, other sports, and international conferences. He directed the concerned authorities to construct international standard hotels, hospitals, and establish other facilities for international guests.