South Punjab Residents Demand New Provinces for Better Governance and Fair Distribution of Resources
Multan — The people of South Punjab have once again strongly reiterated their long-standing demand for the creation of new administrative units to address the region’s underdevelopment, ensure transparent distribution of resources and improve governance. Citizens, civil society representatives and experts across the region, including Multan, have emphasized that sustainable solutions to public problems are possible only when powers and budgets are genuinely devolved to the grassroots level.
Empowered Local Government and Devolution of Powers
According to citizens, the existing centralized administrative structure has failed to meet people’s basic needs. Residents of remote areas are often required to undertake long and costly journeys to the provincial capital for routine administrative matters, access to justice and legal procedures, resulting in significant losses of time and financial resources.
Key Public Demands and Priorities
Basic facilities at people’s doorsteps: The establishment of new administrative units would accelerate the provision of healthcare, quality education, clean drinking water and communication infrastructure at the local level.
Employment and economic development: Smaller provinces and autonomous zones could attract new industries at the regional level, create employment opportunities for skilled local workers and promote commercial activity.
Reduced administrative distances: Bringing government offices and policymaking institutions closer to the people would ensure faster resolution of public grievances and more effective oversight.
Beyond New Boundaries: Guaranteeing Social Justice and Equal Distribution of Resources
Public representatives and citizens argue that a new province is not merely a matter of drawing administrative boundaries or raising a political slogan. Rather, they view it as a formal legal mechanism for ensuring the fair distribution of resources, funds and development projects.
They further maintain that the creation of smaller administrative units could provide underprivileged communities with more effective representation in legislatures and help reduce regional disparities.