Prime Minister Imran Khan Wednesday said green urbanization would help in reducing the adverse impacts of pollution and stressed replicating the models across the country, reported 24NewsHD TV channel.

The prime minister expressed these views while chairing a meeting regarding Ravi Urban Development Authority (RUDA) and Central Business District (CBD) Lahore projects.

The Prime Minister stated that the development of green spaces in new plans and preservation in existing urban areas was necessary for mitigating impacts of pollution including smog.

He directed the Punjab Government to take strict legal action against elements involved in illegal encroachments and illegal housing societies. He also directed expediting the process of lands’ transfer for RUDA and CBD projects.

The Prime Minister also emphasized that urban development projects are being initiated for attracting investments and should not be criticized and hindered for political reasons. He highlighted that these projects are for improving the socio-economic conditions of the common man.

Earlier, the meeting was apprised that physical work on both RUDA and CBD projects is in full swing and the land acquisition process is near completion.

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

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

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