ISLAMABAD, Nov 18: Two councils would be formed in each union council under local government system in Islamabad, which would be responsible for the uplift of rural areas, sources told Dawn on Monday.

The sources said the village councils and neighbourhood councils would comprise five to 11 members each and one seat each would be reserved for women and peasants.

The each council would be headed by a chairman, who would be the person securing highest number of votes in the election of council members.

The sources said the district government, within 90 days after declaration of villages and neighbourhoods, would conduct elections of the councils.

About the function of the councils, the sources said they would perform the duties, which would be assigned to them by the union administration.

The two bodies will also look after the arrangements for water supply, sanitation, cleanliness and disposal of garbage. Similarly, they will develop sites for drinking and bathing of cattle.

The councils will establish watch and vigilance system in the village through unarmed guards and organize sports, cultural and recreational activities besides mobilising voluntary resources, including physical labour, property and cash contributions for municipal activities.

The sources said both the bodies will facilitate the formation of co-operatives for improving economic returns and reduction of poverty.

The councils would mobilise the community for the maintenance of public streets, playgrounds, parks, culverts and public buildings, de-silting of water courses and plantation of trees, and beautification.

The council will assist union administration in conducting surveys in the village and neighbourhood, collecting socio- economic data, selecting sites for providing municipal facilities, identifying encroachments, managing burial places and cremation grounds and lighting of roads.

The funds will be raised through voluntary contributions or on self-help basis to develop and maintain municipal and community welfare facilities.