LAHORE – Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz and Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) President Nawaz Sharif officially launched the ‘Apni Chhat Apna Ghar’ housing scheme, aimed at providing affordable homes to people across Punjab. The inauguration took place at the Expo Center in Lahore, where loan checks were distributed to qualified applicants.
The event was attended by government officials, beneficiaries, and a large number of citizens. Both Maryam Nawaz and Nawaz Sharif personally handed out checks to men and women receiving loans through the scheme.
During her speech, Maryam Nawaz revealed that the housing project was initially proposed by Nawaz Sharif, who remained actively involved throughout its development. “This initiative reflects his vision, and he closely monitored its progress,” she said. The project, which has a budget of Rs 700 billion, aims to provide loans for building houses, allowing thousands of families to have their own homes.
“We received over 500,000 applications, and we plan to provide loans to 500,000 people over the next five years, resulting in the construction of 500,000 homes,” she explained.
Maryam Nawaz emphasized that obtaining these loans has been made simple, requiring only a national ID card and proof of land ownership. “We have ensured that the loans are distributed on merit. This year alone, we will provide loans for 100,000 homes, all interest-free, to be repaid over nine years,” she said.
The Punjab Information Technology Board (PITB) played a significant role in making the application process smooth and transparent. She further assured that loan installments would not exceed Rs 15,000 per month to ensure minimal financial pressure on recipients.
Additionally, she explained that loan payments would be disbursed in two installments instead of four, with no repayment required for the first three months. People can apply online or visit local government offices for further information.
On the political front, Maryam Nawaz confidently stated that Pakistan is now on the path to progress. She criticized the opposition’s tactics of protests and unrest, saying, “The politics of chaos and division is dying. Soon, these forces will be a thing of the past.”
In her closing remarks, she reaffirmed the government’s commitment to public welfare, particularly in health, education, and job creation. She extended her support to people from all provinces, including Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, for accessing these services.