LAHORE:Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Sunday visited sites of different development projects being carried out in Lahore and ordered early completion of work on them. Mr. Sharif inspected the under-construction Lahore bridge and CBD underpass to review the pace of work and directed for fast-paced completion.

During his visit to the construction site of Lahore bridge, the prime minister was apprised that the Lahore Development Authority (LDA) project worth Rs1,712 million was started in the year 2021, but delayed for two years due to the issuance of no objection certificate. Shehbaz Sharif expressed his displeasure over the pace of work and the shutdown programme by the LESCO. He directed for initiation of legal action against the official concerned for the delay and desired completion of the process in two weeks.

The officials were given one-month time to complete the construction work instead of a period of two months. The prime minister was accompanied by Punjab Caretaker Chief Minister Syed Mohsin Raza Naqvi, chief secretary and other senior officials.

The PM also visited CBD underpass and termed the delay unfair. He questioned the hiring of third-party for validation and directed the appointment of a renowned third party at the cost of a construction company.

He directed for expeditious completion of the project by advising the relevant officials to give special incentives to the workforce. “Pay them extra and they will work even during Eid holiday,” he added. Chief Operating Officer of CBD Punjab Imran Amin, COO CBD Punjab Brigadier (Retd) Mansoor Janjua, Senior officials of CBD Punjab and project contractors were also present. CEO CBD Imran Amin briefed the prime minister about the project and said the project has entered its final phase and both barrels will be completed after Eid ul Fitr.