CM Maryam Nawaz Aims to Transform Punjab on Japan’s Urban Development Model
Punjab and Yokohama agree on cooperation in environment, infrastructure, and modern city planning
LAHORE, August 19, 2025:
Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has announced that her government will follow the model of Japan’s advanced cities, particularly Yokohama, to modernize Punjab’s urban development. The statement came during her ongoing five-day official visit to Japan, where she held important discussions on environment, infrastructure, and technology.
Partnership Between Punjab and Yokohama
During a meeting at Yokohama Town Hall, CM Maryam Nawaz and her delegation were briefed on the city’s world-class urban planning and environmental systems. She stressed that Punjab aims to match Japan’s standards in road construction, housing quality, and industrial development. The Ravi Urban Development Authority (RUDA) will also collaborate with Yokohama on future development projects.
The CM highlighted that Punjab is exploring cooperation in high-speed train projects between Lahore and Islamabad, modernization of the province’s railway system, and adopting Japan’s latest cable car and airlift technologies to enhance travel infrastructure.
Learning from Japan’s Environmental Standards
Maryam Nawaz also toured Japan’s largest wastewater treatment facility in Yokohama, where she observed advanced systems for sewage management and recycling. Japanese officials informed her that the city’s plant processes 1.5 million liters of wastewater daily, while also generating clean energy from waste to support local heating systems.
She praised Yokohama’s efficient waste management model, where garbage is sorted through automated systems and converted into reusable materials. “These methods will be replicated in Punjab to ensure eco-friendly urban growth,” she said.
Promoting Welfare and Education
The chief minister also visited Newport Pier Bonded Warehouse and a community welfare center where children were engaged in creative skill-building activities. She appreciated the Japanese model of combining education with practical training and announced that Punjab will promote similar initiatives to encourage innovation and youth development.
Senior Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb accompanied CM Maryam Nawaz during the visit.
Strengthening RUDA on Yokohama’s Model
At Yokohama Port, the CM briefed Japanese officials about the Ravi Urban Development Authority’s ongoing work. She extended an invitation to the Yokohama Urban Development Authority to visit Lahore and see RUDA’s progress.
“We aim to develop Lahore and other major cities of Punjab on the model of Yokohama—modern, industrial, and environmentally sustainable,” she said. The Japanese side welcomed the invitation and agreed to continue cooperation.
Preparing for Climate Challenges
Alongside her development agenda, CM Maryam Nawaz directed Punjab authorities to take emergency measures to deal with possible cloudbursts and heavy rains. She instructed hospitals and health centers to remain on high alert and ensure adequate staff to handle emergencies.
A Vision for Modern Punjab
Maryam Nawaz Sharif emphasized that Punjab’s future lies in adopting global best practices in urban development. “Japan’s experience shows how industrial growth and environmental protection can go hand in hand. We are determined to implement this model in Punjab,” she concluded.