RAWALPINDI, (APP – UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News – 5th May, 2026) Deputy Commissioner Murree Agha Zaheer Abbas Shirazi on Monday reviewed the ongoing anti-encroachment and rehabilitation operation on Mall Road and directed officials to accelerate the pace of work.
Officials concerned briefed the deputy commissioner on progress, challenges and the future course of action.
The deputy commissioner stressed that the operation should be carried out in a transparent, effective and swift manner in line with the vision of the Punjab government.
He said restoring the beauty and historical significance of Mall Road was the need of the hour.
He directed the staff to ensure that alongside removal of encroachments, maximum facilitation was provided to citizens and tourists.
During the inspection, special focus was given to safety protocols. The deputy commissioner reviewed measures related to workers’ safety, safe use of machinery and availability of alternate routes for the public.
He instructed officers to ensure strict implementation of safety SOPs, adding that no negligence would be tolerated.
He said protection of human lives must remain the top priority during development and rehabilitation work.
Later, the deputy commissioner also met hotel owners and representatives of the traders’ association on Mall Road. Traders apprised him of concerns regarding the impact of the operation on business activities.
Responding to their concerns, he assured that legitimate issues would be addressed on a priority basis and effective strategies were being adopted to minimise disruption to businesses.
He said Murree was an important tourist destination of Pakistan and maintaining its beauty was a key responsibility of the administration.
He added that restoration of Mall Road to its original state, removal of encroachments and improvement of infrastructure were essential to develop Murree as an international standard tourist destination.
The deputy commissioner urged citizens, traders and tourists to cooperate with the administration to ensure timely completion of the operation and help make Murree a clean, organised and attractive city.
During the visit, Additional Deputy Commissioner (Revenue) Umar Awais Kayani and Assistant Commissioner Murree Arshad Iqbal accompanied him.
