RAWALPINDI: The Parks and Horticulture Authority (PHA) launched a ‘Revival of Rawalpindi’ campaign and asked volunteers to help it in beautification of the city.

PHA Chairman Arif Mehmood told Dawn that forms had been uploaded on the website of the authority so that volunteers could fill them to participate in the beautification drive. He said the objective to involve volunteers was to get ideas and help for development of green areas, wall painting and cleanliness in their respective areas.

For the campaign, the PHA has signed a memorandum of understanding with the Rawalpindi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (RCCI) and sought its financial help.

He said the involvement of all segments of society would improve the city’s landscape and with the help of the citizens the PHA would carry out its functions more efficiently.

He said the PHA had experts and suggestions from the citizens would further improve the look of the city.

He said the chief minister had tasked the PHA with the beautification of Rawalpindi and establishment of parks as well as food streets to present the culture of Potohar region.

The Punjab government formed an 11-member task force led by the PHA chairman and consisting of the representatives of the local administration, Rawalpindi Cantonment Board, traders, Rawalpindi Development Authority, National College of Arts, Rawalpindi Municipal Corporation and archeology department.

He said old buildings in the city would be restored to their original shape to attract tourists. The chief minister has assured the PHA of financial support, said Mr Mehmood.

He said the PHA also planned to establish its own nursery so that it would not have to purchase plants from private nurseries.

Published in Dawn, July 3rd, 2019