One window facility set up for payment of compensation: Shahbaz Sharif

Lahore: Punjab Chief Minister Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif has said that the Metro Bus Project, which is unique in the transport history of Pakistan, is being completed at a fast pace and that metro buses will soon start operating for the convenience of the masses. He said that labourers, farmers, students, as well as people of all walks of life will directly benefit from the project. He said that he is fully aware of the problems of the people but these are temporary. He said that he is thankful to the affectees of Metro Bus Project for their patience and sacrifices in the larger interest of the masses.

He expressed these views while presiding over a meeting held regarding the payment of compensation to the Metro Bus Project affectees. Deputy Speaker Punjab Assembly Rana Mashhood Ahmed Khan, Members Provincial Assembly Hafiz Mian Nauman, Ajasam Shairf, Ramzan Siddique Bhatti, Dr. Saeed Elahi, Chairman Lahore Transport Company Kh. Ahmed Hassan, Senior Member Board of Revenue, Secretary Excise, Commissioner Lahore Division, Director General LDA, concerning officers and affectees were present. Addressing the meeting, the Chief Minister said a one-window facility has been set up at the Town Hall where compensation will be paid to the affectees for three days (on Thursday, Friday and Saturday).

The Chief Minister ordered Assembly Members, Senior Member Board of Revenue, Commissioner Lahore Division and concerning officers to ensure their presence at the Town Hall during these three days so that payment of compensation to the affectees of the Metro Bus Project could be ensured. He said payments should be made by taking prompt action on the claims of the affectees and the demands of justice should be upheld. He said 80% cost of the building structure is also being paid to the affectees alongwith the cost of the land. He said the business class affected due to the Metro Bus Project has been given tax exemption for this period so that it does not face additional burden.

The Chief Minister said a committee set up under the Commissioner Lahore Division is reviewing matters regarding ownership of the affected property and the Punjab government has taken every possible step for the payment of cost of land, shop or house to the people affected by the project. The Commissioner briefed the Chief Minister on the method of payment of compensation to the affectees. The affectees praised the steps taken by the Chief Minister for in time payment of compensation.