Minister of State for Finance and Railways Bilal Azhar Kiyani chaired a high-level meeting with the district administration on Saturday to review the pace of key development schemes and future initiatives aimed at promoting economic growth and employment in Jhelum.
Lillah–Jhelum Dual Carriageway Progress
During the meeting, officials briefed the minister on the progress of the 128-kilometre Lillah–Jhelum Dual Carriageway Project. Three of its five sections are substantially completed, while the remaining two sections are scheduled for completion by the end of the year. Kiyani directed the authorities to maintain the pace of work and said he would personally inspect the ongoing construction in the coming weeks.
Jhelum Model Bazaar and Co-Working Space
The meeting also reviewed work on the Jhelum Model Bazaar, being developed on Tehsil Road to facilitate traders and improve commercial activity in the city. Additionally, Kiyani was briefed on plans to establish Jhelum’s first co-working space and job centre in collaboration with the private sector. The proposed facility will provide a shared workspace for entrepreneurs and freelancers while enabling employers to register vacancies and connect with local job seekers.
Jhelum Heritage and Culture Board
The minister further discussed the formation of the Jhelum Heritage and Culture Board, comprising historians, writers and local stakeholders, to preserve and promote the district’s rich historical, cultural and literary heritage. The board is expected to be constituted later this month, with plans to organise literary events before the end of the year.
Government Commitment to Development
Speaking on the occasion, Kiyani reaffirmed the government’s commitment to completing ongoing development projects on schedule and creating greater economic and employment opportunities for the people of Jhelum.
