Punjab’s First Decision Support System Launched by Minister for Local Government Zeeshan Rafiq
A significant milestone in urban governance was achieved today as Punjab’s first Decision Support System (DSS) was officially launched under the auspices of the Punjab Intermediate Cities Improvement Investment Program (PICIIP). Minister for Local Government, Zeeshan Rafiq, inaugurated the system by placing his hand on the screen during a ceremony held at the program’s National Workshop on "Sustainable and Innovative Models for Public Service Delivery.”
Addressing the event, Minister Zeeshan Rafiq highlighted that the Punjab Government, in collaboration with the Asian Development Bank (ADB), has introduced this innovative system to enhance access to urban planning information and improve governance. Initially launched for the residents of Sialkot and Sahiwal, the DSS will gradually be extended across Punjab.
“This system is designed to curb illegal constructions, ensure the optimal use of agricultural land for farming purposes, and prevent corruption. It will enhance transparency and public trust in government institutions,” he remarked.
The event was attended by key figures, including Secretary Local Government Shakeel Ahmad Mian, Program Director Hamza Salik, Senior Project Officer of ADB Umar Ali Shah, Deputy Project Directors Talha Zubair and Salman Usman, and Director Monitoring Sajawal Bhatti.
Modernizing Municipal Services:
In his opening remarks, Program Director Hamza Salik emphasized the critical role of PICIIP and its associated projects, such as water supply, solid waste management, and sewage management, in revolutionizing urban services. He noted that mega projects in Sahiwal and Sialkot are nearing completion, adopting cutting-edge business models for municipal services to ensure sustainability.
“This decision support system is a game-changer. Citizens can now access land-use information from the comfort of their homes within moments, in line with approved land-use plans. The system represents a landmark achievement in our journey towards improved public services,” Hamza Salik added.
The event underscored the Punjab Government’s commitment, with support from the Asian Development Bank, to leverage technology for public welfare, marking a new era of good governance and sustainable urban development.
