The Punjab government has approved the province’s first Sky Glass Bridge project in Kotli Sattian, Murree, as part of a broader plan to promote tourism and improve infrastructure in the region.
The approval was granted during a special meeting jointly chaired by PML-N President Nawaz Sharif and Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz. The meeting reviewed progress on the Murree Protection and Rehabilitation Plan and discussed measures to address environmental and tourism-related challenges.
To tackle the growing issue of landslides in Murree, the government decided to seek assistance from international experts. Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz directed authorities to take immediate steps to stabilize vulnerable areas and accelerate relief and rehabilitation efforts in affected locations, including Chatta Mor, Darya Gali, Bansera Gali, Naml, and Jhika Gali.
Three New Hospitality Zones Planned
The meeting also approved the development of three new hospitality zones in Murree’s suburban areas—Shawala, Sozo, and Brewery. The government plans to develop five-star standard hotels in partnership with the private sector to strengthen tourism infrastructure.
A team of experts will be formed to oversee the Murree rehabilitation project, while authorities have been directed to remove debris left behind after recent anti-encroachment operations.
Murree Glass Train and Road Expansion Projects
Officials informed the meeting that Jhika Gali Road and Reach Bil Road will each be widened by 10 feet to improve traffic flow.
The chief minister also set a one-month deadline to begin construction work on the proposed Murree Glass Train Project, another major tourism initiative for the hill station.
New Parks and Tourist Attractions
The government reviewed plans for three new public parks:
- Angoori Road Park
- MIT Park
- Ariari Park, Kotli Sattian
Additional tourism projects approved for Bansera Gali include:
- A zoological garden
- Wildlife conservation facilities
- An eco-zone
- A bridge crossing
- A modern conference facility
- Dedicated bear, tiger, and bird enclosures
First Glamping Pod Village in Murree
Murree’s first glamping pod village will be established at Chewra Hill as a modern tourist destination. The project will be managed by a private-sector operator.
The meeting also reviewed progress on several ongoing projects, including the Kotli Sattian chairlift, Punjab House, and Forest Rest House developments.
Water Supply and Infrastructure Improvements
Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz directed authorities to complete the feasibility report for a bulk water supply project from the River Jhelum by April 30.
According to a briefing by Deputy Commissioner Zaheer Shirazi, rainwater harvesting systems have been installed in approximately 187,600 homes across Murree and Kotli Sattian, helping improve water access for local residents.
Officials also confirmed the completion of water supply schemes in Dhar Jawa and Donga Gali.
Punjab’s First Facility Management Unit Approved
The chief minister approved the establishment of Punjab’s first Facility Management Unit, which will be responsible for the construction, maintenance, and management of Punjab Houses and other government buildings across the province.
The initiatives are part of the provincial government’s broader strategy to improve tourism infrastructure, environmental management, and public facilities in Murree and surrounding areas.
