With the start of holy month of Ramazan, security at mosques, imambargahs, markets and other places across the province has been beefed up. In Lahore, policemen have been deployed at mosques and markets. Punjab Chief Minister Shahbaz Sharif said this while chairing a meeting of provincial cabinet committee on law and order here on Saturday to review security arrangements for Ramazan.
Addressing the meeting, Shahbaz said: "All efforts would be made to ensure law and order during Ramazan." He said security plan evolved for ensuring law and order during Ramazan should be strictly implemented. He directed that solid security measures should be taken for security at mosques, imambargahs, markets and other places. He said police and law enforcement agencies should perform their duties efficiently and diligently and stay alert during the holy month. Shahbaz directed the authorities to ensure provision of all out facilities to the people visiting Ramazan Bazaars. "Historic Ramazan package of over Rs 9 billion will be given to provide relief to the people during this month. For the provision of flour at the low rates, a subsidy of Rs 8.78 billion will be given under which 10 kg bag of flour will be available at Rs 250 with subsidy of Rs 125 and 20 kg bag will be available at Rs 500 with subsidy of Rs 250," he said.
He said more than 318 Ramazan Bazaars have been set up across the province while model bazaars set up at various places will also work as Ramazan bazaars. He said agriculture fair price shops have also been set up at all Ramazan bazaars where Rs 20 per kg subsidy has been given for gram pulse, gram flour (basin), dates, apples and bananas while ghee, cooking oil, chicken, eggs and sugar will also be available at low prices than market. He said more than 2000 Madni Dastarkhawans have been set up all over the province where free iftaar and sehri meals will be served.
In another meeting, Shahbaz reviewed preferences of the annual development program 2017-18. Addressing the meeting, Shahbaz said the government will focus on social sector in ADP 2017-18. He said more resources will be allocated for backward areas, clean drinking water, health and education in the next budget. Special arrangements will be taken for welfare of farmers and the development of agricultural sector, he said. Shahbaz said that network of carpeted road has been laid in rural areas under 'Pakian Sarkaan Shookay Panaday' program. He said more funds will be allocated for progress of Southern Punjab and implementation of majors projects will continue there.