BAHAWALPUR: The forest department has finalised a three-phased comprehensive plan worth Rs140 million under the ADP to attract maximum visitors at the neglected but historic national park in Lal Sohanra, about 40km from here on Bahawalpur-Hasilpur road. Dawn learnt the project was mainly related to the development of two existing lakes in the park and converting them into picnic spots.

The plan envisaged expansion of the lake at RD-50 rest house and the pond area. The lake would be expanded and equipped with facilities during the current financial year with Rs50 million while work on the pond would be undertaken in the next financial year.

Bahawalpur division Forest Conservator Liaquat Sulehri told Dawn the expansion plan had been initiated under a directive of Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif.

He said after extension the lakes would have boating facility, and a playground, restaurants, tourist information centre and benches and chairs, swings, drinking water stands around them.

A road leading to the pond area lake would also be constructed for convenience of visitors.

WATER: Commissioner Javed Akbar has ordered restoration of eight water supply schemes of Bahawalnagar district and one sewerage scheme of Sadiqabad.

Presiding over a divisional development committee meeting, work to upgrade nursing hostels in Yazman and Ahmedpur East was reviewed and approved, which was likely to cost Rs200 million.

Published in Dawn, August 27th, 2014