Day: May 16, 2024

The Interior Ministry disclosed on Thursday that over Rs 927 million has been spent on the renovation of Parliament House over the past five years. This substantial expenditure was detailed in a written statement presented to the National Assembly, outlining the annual costs associated with maintaining and upgrading the historic parliamentary building. According to the ministry's statement, the expenditure on Parliament House renovations has varied each year. In the fiscal year 2019-20, Rs 108 million was spent on renovation efforts. This figure increased significantly to over Rs 171 million in 2020-21. The following year, 2021-22, saw an even higher expenditure, with Rs 286 million allocated towards renovations. The most substantial amount was spent in 2022-23, with costs reaching Rs 302 million. For the current fiscal year, 2023-24, Rs 60 million has already been spent on ongoing renovation projects. In 2022, it was reported that Parliament House would receive an additional Rs 5 billion in the fiscal year 2022-23. This additional funding was allocated under various heads, including the salaries of employees, operational expenditures, and allowances, reflecting the significant financial commitment required to maintain the parliamentary facilities. The Parliament of Pakistan consists of two houses: the Upper House, known as the Senate, and the Lower House, known as the National Assembly. Both houses have received additional funds compared to previous fiscal years to cover the rising costs associated with their operations and upkeep. This increased funding highlights the importance placed on ensuring the functionality and integrity of the legislative hub of the country. Last year, then Senate Chairman Sadiq Sanjrani initiated a move to rename the Parliament House building. He constituted a parliamentary committee tasked with proposing a new name that would resonate with Pakistan's cultural heritage, national values, and symbolize the unity of the nation. This initiative reflects a broader effort to align the id entity of the Parliament House more closely with the country's rich cultural and national identity. Source: Pro Pakistani

Governor Punjab Sardar Salim Haider Khan held a meeting with Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz Sharif in Lahore on Thursday and discussed various important issues for the development of the province. Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif congratulated the newly elected Governor of Punjab on assuming office. The two sides expressed commitment to work together for the betterment, sustainable development and quality of life of the citizens of Punjab. The Governor and the CM also discussed other important issues including economic development, governance, education, health facilities, law and order and climate change. Source: Radio Pakistan

Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has said that the government is working to modernize the healthcare system in Punjab. Speaking at the inauguration ceremony of a rural health unit in Phool Nagar today, she said that 300 new Rural health units are being built and all units are being equipped with modern facilities. She said that field hospitals are being set up in all cities of Punjab to provide health facilities to people at their doorstep. Source: Radio Pakistan

Heatwave Conditions are likely to develop over most parts of the country, especially Punjab and Sindh from Tuesday. According to NDMA, a three-day shallow westerly wave is likely to affect upper parts of the country from today, resulting dust and thunder storms with expected rains. Farmers are advised to remain extra cautious and plan agricultural activity accordingly. NDMA also advised general public to take necessary precautions. Source: Radio Pakistan

International Day of Living Together in Peace is being observed on Thursday. The day urges people to live in a united and peaceful way by listening to, respecting, and appreciating others. Source: Radio Pakistan

Governor Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Faisal Karim Kundi called on President Asif Ali Zardari in Islamabad today. The President congratulated Faisal Karim Kundi for assuming the office of the Governor Khyber Pakhtuhkhwa and instructed him to work hard for wellbeing of people of the province. The President also expressed best wishes for his future endeavours as the Governor. On the occasion, Faisal Karim Kundi thanked President Asif Ali Zardari for reposing trust in him. Source: Radio Pakistan