TAXILA: In a step toward mainstreaming women in local governance, a female facilitation desk has been established at the Attock Municipal Committee.

It has been established on the directives from the Local Government and Community Development (LGCD) Department, Punjab.

The desk was officially inaugurated by Assistant Commissioner Attock Inza Abbassi, who also issued the formal notification of its establishment.

Briefing reporters about the initiative, Assistant Commissioner (City) Inza Abbassi said that Ms Quratulain has been appointed as the focal person for the female facilitation desk, while Zahid Hussain has been designated as the focal person for the women’s public grievance forums with additional responsibilities.

Responding to a question, she said the initiative is part of a broader provincial effort that includes the establishment of female facilitation desks in 45 municipal bodies across Punjab, with Sangat Development Foundation providing training and capacity-building support.

The foundation is also spearheading the creation of a “Network of Female Facilitation Centres Punjab,” of which the Attock Municipal Committee is now a member.

She said the female facilitation desk aims to provide women with a direct and inclusive platform to report and address issues related to municipal services, including registration of births, deaths, marriages, and divorces; approval of building plans and land-use planning; provision of clean drinking water; improved drainage and sewerage systems; solid waste collection and disposal; streetlight installation; elimination of encroachments; animal control (including stray dogs); promotion of public festivals and cultural activities; and maintenance of public parks.

Commenting on the initiative, Deputy Commissioner Attock Rao Atif Raza emphasised that all complaints and suggestions registered by women at the facilitation desk will be addressed on a priority basis, ensuring their meaningful participation in local governance and improved access to essential civic services.

“This move reflects the government’s commitment to inclusive development, aiming to bridge gender gaps in civic participation and foster a more responsive municipal service delivery system,” he added.

Published in Dawn, July 13th, 2025