World Bank Mission Advances Preparation for Punjab Inclusive Cities Program (PICP)
A World Bank Mission visited multiple locations in Punjab to advance preparations for the proposed Punjab Inclusive Cities Program (PICP). The mission focused on conducting preliminary surveys to assess and identify potential sites for the establishment of modern landfill facilities under the program. The mission was led by Amena Raja (Senior Urban Specialist & Team Leader) and included key experts such as Suhaib Rasheed (Senior Urban Specialist), Imran Ul Haque, Azhar Ud Din (Environment Consultant), Sara Khokhar, and Syed Ibrahim Ali Shah (Consultant) while from PMDFC Ms. Tehmina Kiran, PO (Environment), Mr. Ahsan Bella, SWM Expert, Ghulam Shabir, PO ID accompanied the delegates.
As part of the visit, the mission team held a comprehensive meeting with Mr. Rouf Ahmad, Chief Executive Officer of the Faisalabad Waste Management Company (FWMC). The discussions explored FWMC’s operational scope, its pivotal role in managing solid waste, and its capacity to align with the program's objectives, particularly in ensuring effective waste management solutions.
In Jhang, the World Bank team met with Mr. Khurram Bhatti, the ADCG, who provided a detailed briefing on the availability of potential landfill sites. He emphasized the readiness of the local administration to support the program through site selection and development, ensuring compliance with environmental and social safeguards.
The Punjab Inclusive Cities Program seeks to enhance urban infrastructure and improve essential services across 20 cities in the province, with a strong focus on sustainability and inclusivity, particularly in water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) practices. The World Bank mission marks a critical step in finalizing the program’s technical and operational framework, paving the way for impactful urban development.
