SAHIWAL: Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz inaugurated the province’s green electric bus service in Sahiwal on Monday, terming it a milestone towards eco-friendly and affordable public transport in smaller cities. She announced that 30 electric buses have been allocated for the city with a flat fare of Rs 20. Travel will remain free for women, students, senior citizens, and special persons, while each bus will also have Wi-Fi and a separate section for women.

“I love the people of Sahiwal and can never forget their affection,” she said, adding that her father and former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif was pleased about her visit. Maryam Nawaz added that the electric bus initiative will be extended to other small cities across Punjab, demonstrating the government’s focus on inclusive development and quality facilities for citizens.

Later, the Chief Minister visited flood-affected areas of Bahawalnagar, where she toured relief camps and met displaced families. She announced a comprehensive rehabilitation and compensation package, including Rs 20,000 per acre for flood-hit farmers, Rs 50,000 for small animal losses, Rs 500,000 for large animals, ration cards for 1.5 million families, and immediate rehabilitation of homes and livestock. She said 2.5 million people were safely relocated during the flood emergency. “Flood victims are not just victims to me – they are the guests of Allah,” she remarked.

A baby boy born in one of the camps was named Nawaz Sharif, while a newborn girl was named Maryam, symbolising the affection of the people for the Sharif family. The Chief Minister also pledged that teacher shortages in Punjab schools would be resolved within three months and announced that by November, 100,000 people will receive homes under housing programs.

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Reaffirming her political stance, Maryam Nawaz said, “If you remove Nawaz Sharif’s services from Pakistan, nothing remains but ruins. He played a key role in the country’s nuclear capability and the development of Punjab.” She noted that Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif and Pakistan had recently been honored by Saudi Arabia, adding that the country would now play a role in the protection of the Two Holy Mosques.

Finally, Maryam Nawaz met injured flood relief workers and praised Punjab Senior Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb, whose arm was burned during extreme relief efforts, calling her an example of dedication.