ATTOCK, November 3, 2026 (Nazrana Times): Pakistan’s Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif inaugurated 127 development projects during a visit to Attock district. The projects are intended to improve infrastructure and public services and address longstanding problems faced by residents.

59 Road Schemes Estimated at PKR 23 Billion

The development package includes 59 road construction and rehabilitation schemes with an estimated cost of PKR 23 billion. It also includes projects to improve public facilities and administrative services and expand opportunities for vulnerable communities.

Among the projects inaugurated were an Agri Mall, a Land Record Centre, a Model Children’s Home and the Fateh Jang Special Education Centre. These facilities are intended to make essential services more accessible to residents.

Focus on Drainage, Water Management and Public Engagement

Maryam Nawaz stressed the need to improve Attock’s urban infrastructure, particularly its roads, drainage and water management systems. She said development projects should bring practical benefits to residents and tackle longstanding civic problems.

The chief minister also spoke with local residents, children and young people. She encouraged young participants to pursue their ambitions with confidence and determination and stressed the importance of public participation and direct contact with citizens.

Attock’s Sikh Heritage: Gurdwara Sri Panja Sahib

Attock district is home to Gurdwara Sri Panja Sahib in Hassan Abdal, one of the most sacred pilgrimage sites for Sikhs worldwide. The historic shrine is closely associated with Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of Sikhism. According to Sikh tradition, a sacred rock at the gurdwara bears his handprint and holds deep spiritual significance for devotees.

The gurdwara welcomes Sikh pilgrims from several countries, particularly during Vaisakhi and the birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev Ji. Preserving the shrine and providing suitable facilities for international pilgrims are important to safeguarding Sikh heritage and supporting religious tourism in Pakistan.

Protecting Places of Worship and Promoting Interfaith Understanding

Sikh, Hindu, Christian and other minority communities have longstanding religious and cultural ties to different regions of Pakistan. Protecting places of worship, preserving historic religious sites, improving pilgrimage facilities and facilitating religious ceremonies can help sustain those ties.

Continued engagement with minority communities and protection of their religious heritage can build trust and strengthen understanding between people of different faiths. These efforts can also demonstrate Pakistan’s commitment to religious diversity and the rights of all citizens.

Report: Ali Imran Chattha