RAWALPINDI: The Parks and Horticulture Authority (PHA) has begun its beautification drive on Murree Road from Marrir Chowk to Committee Chowk.

Adviser to the Punjab Chief Minister on Horticulture and Tourism Asif Mehmood told Dawn that the PHA began working to spruce up Murree Road.

Under the plan, painting frames have been installed along Leh Bridge in front of Rialto Cinema to “cover eyesores” and “present the culture of the country”.

“We will plant trees and flowers along the road in the coming days,” he added. He said a wooden frame has also been installed along the road.

He said Murree Road is one of the main points of entry into the city, and the PHA is working with private companies to beautify the city.

The authority has worked to improve the condition of the road and has been asked to work on the condition of other roads as well, he said, adding that the provincial government has asked for the city to be made clean and green.

Greenbelts will be established as well, Mr Mehmood said, and the administration will support the Parks and Horticulture Authority in this regard. Old buildings will also be restored to their original shape to attract tourists.

To a question, Mr Mehmood said he has visited Raja Bazaar and other areas, and gardeners have been asked to look after trees planted along roads.

He added that the authority will devise a plan to improve historic markets as well.

He said Raja Bazaar and other areas will be given a new look and trees and flowers will be planted on road medians in the inner city.

Published in Dawn, August 16th, 2020