Nawaz Sharif vows accelerated development in AJK, promises green buses and mobile hospitals

MUZAFFARABAD: Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) President and former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif on Tuesday pledged to accelerate development across Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), saying the region holds a place “second only to his home” in his heart.

Addressing a public gathering in Muzaffarabad, Nawaz Sharif announced that he would visit AJK four times a year to personally oversee the progress of development projects initiated for the welfare of the people.

He said 10 fully air-conditioned green buses would be provided to the region within the next few days, while 15 mobile hospitals would also be deployed before the upcoming AJK elections.

Reaffirming his commitment to the region, the former prime minister said his vision was to transform AJK through improved infrastructure, public services and increased development spending.

“Whether I win or lose the elections, it is my dream to bring development in AJK and turn it into a region comparable with the top cities of Pakistan,” he said.

Nawaz Sharif added that the government would significantly enhance the region’s development budget to ensure the benefits of progress reach every part of Azad Kashmir.

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Meanwhile, Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz announced a series of welfare initiatives for the youth and residents of AJK, including scholarships, free education and housing support.

Addressing the same gathering, she said 2,000 talented students from AJK would receive higher education scholarships under the Honhar Scholarship Programme.

She also announced free education for all children in the region and said she would request Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to extend the “Apni Chhat Apna Ghar” housing scheme to Azad Kashmir.

Maryam Nawaz further announced the distribution of 5,000 laptops and tablets among deserving and high-achieving students, saying the government remained committed to empowering youth through education and improved access to opportunities.

Polling for the Azad Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly will be held in three phases, with voting in Mirpur Division scheduled for July 27, followed by Muzaffarabad Division and refugee seats on August 2, while the final phase in Poonch Division will take place on August 10.