Former prime minister Nawaz Sharif and Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif have reviewed ongoing and new development projects in Murree and approved a series of major tourism and infrastructure initiatives aimed at boosting the region’s economy.
According to a report by 24NewsHD TV channel on Sunday, a meeting chaired jointly by Nawaz Sharif and Maryam Nawaz in Murree approved the construction of Punjab’s first Sky Glass Bridge in the Kotli Sattian area to promote tourism.
The meeting decided to engage international experts to address landslide risks in the hilly region and directed authorities to take immediate steps to manage potential mudflow impacts in vulnerable areas.
Officials were also instructed to initiate rehabilitation and relief work for affected residents in Chatta Mor, Darya Gali, Bansara Gali, Namal and Jhika Gali.
The government also approved the establishment of three new hospitality zones in Shawala, Suzo and Brewery on the outskirts of Murree. These zones will include high-quality five-star hotels developed in partnership with the private sector.
A team of experts will be formed to oversee the Murree rehabilitation project, while encroachments will be cleared and debris removed from affected sites. Road infrastructure, including Murree Reach Bull Road and other key routes, is set to be widened by ten feet.
The meeting also set a one-month deadline for the start of construction work on the Murree Glass Train project and reviewed progress on the Murree Conservation and Rehabilitation Plan, including proposals for three new parks in the region.
Officials were briefed on several recreational and tourism projects, including Angori Road Park, MIT Park, and Ariyadi Park in Kotli Sattian. Additional developments include a zoological garden, eco-zone facilities, bridge crossings, and a modern conference facility in Bansara Gali.
Wildlife conservation initiatives such as Bear House, Tiger House and Bird Aviary were also discussed. A glamping pod village in Chiwarahal has been completed and will be handed over to the private sector for management, alongside approval of a paragliding club project in the same area.
Other infrastructure projects reviewed included the Kotli Sattian chairlift, Punjab House, and forest rest houses. The meeting also ordered completion of a feasibility report for a bulk water supply scheme from the River Jhelum by 30 April.
Officials reported that rainwater harvesting systems have already been successfully implemented in 1,876 houses across Murree and Kotli Sattian, helping reduce water collection difficulties for women and children.
A new Facility Management Unit has also been approved to oversee construction, maintenance and administration of government properties across Punjab, with a detailed plan to be submitted by the Works and Communications Department.