LAHORE: Parks and Horticulture Authority (PHA) Director General Muhammad Tahir Watto on Tuesday embarked on a surprise tour to assess the progress of ongoing projects within the city.
The tour included visits to key roads, including Liberty Roundabout, Shanobaba Chowk, Township, Johar Town, Ada Plot, Pine Road, Lahore Bridge, and Model Town Underpass, amongst others. His early morning itinerary extended to natural havens as well, encompassing the Jallo Botanical Garden and the serene Titli Ghar.
During the tour, Mr Wattoo not only observed the ongoing work but also personally engaged with the dedicated workforce responsible for maintaining the horticultural landscapes that grace the city. In recognition of their diligent efforts, he extended his felicitations and further motivated them by announcing a well-deserved cash reward.
However, the visit wasn’t solely celebratory. Mr Watto also expressed his dissatisfaction towards absent and tardy employees at certain points, such as Liberty Chowk, Jail Road, and Pico Morr. He made it clear that punctuality and commitment are non-negotiable aspects of their roles.
Addressing several areas of improvement, he directed the officials to revamp the flower beds along the green belt of Gulberg Main Boulevard. This transformation includes the installation of new planters and the completion of necessary civil work.
He also laid out directives for intensifying horticultural efforts on planters at Model Town Underpass and Lahore Bridge, underlining the significance of these landmarks. The briefing on plant breeding and other horticultural endeavours was provided by Abdulla Cheema, the project director at Shadiwal Nursery. During the presentation, the achievements and plans pertaining to the Jallo Botanical Garden and Titli Ghar were highlighted.
