LAHORE: Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has called for a comprehensive plan to establish labour colonies across the province.
During a recent review meeting, she approved several initiatives aimed at improving the welfare of labourers, including housing and healthcare facilities.
CM Nawaz also emphasised the strict enforcement of the minimum wage across Punjab, directing authorities to ensure that the PKR 37,000 wage threshold is upheld throughout the province.
As part of the approved projects, social security hospitals across Punjab will be revamped. Additionally, Maryam Nawaz Sharif Wellness Centres will be set up in Lahore, Rawalpindi, and Islamabad for pre-screening, with patients being referred to larger hospitals as needed.
The government has also granted initial approval for a 200-bed Rehmatul-ul-Alameen Cardiology Centre on Defence Road in Lahore, along with a new 50-bed Social Security Hospital in Rahim Yar Khan.
CM Nawaz has instructed amendments to the existing labour laws to enhance worker welfare and has requested a detailed welfare plan from Provincial Labour Minister Faisal Ayub Khokhar.
She emphasised that it is the government’s duty to ensure fair wages, medical care, employment opportunities, and shelter for workers. “No labourer should go to bed hungry or face hardships,” she added.
The Punjab government is also focused on providing better educational opportunities for the children of labourers, CM Nawaz highlighted.
