Punjab has turned 20 acres of neglected railway land into public parks, launching a 45-kilometer Green Railway Corridor project that officials say could serve as a model for smog reduction and urban renewal across the province. Main Developments Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif inaugurated the four-phase project, which aims to transform abandoned railway land into landscaped public spaces. Under the first phase, land stretching from Shahdara to Raiwind has been converted into green belts, gardens, and recreational areas. Twenty-one parks have already been developed along the railway track, with a target of 32 parks across the province. The project carries an estimated cost of over Rs1.77 billion and is being implemented jointly by the Punjab Horticulture Authority (PHA) and Pakistan Railways. Read also: Inside PPP's Push to Reshape Karachi's Public Services Background The initiative follows Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif's vision of building a greener, smog-free Punjab inspired by modern urban development models. It reflects a broader provincial strategy to create recreational opportunities for children, women, and families while improving environmental conditions. Previously, the railway land was strewn with garbage and abandoned, contributing to blight and pollution. The project converts these neglected areas into usable public spaces, addressing both environmental and community needs. Why It Matters Residents have welcomed the transformation, describing the conversion of garbage dumps into attractive parks as a commendable achievement. One elderly resident remarked it was hard to believe such a transformation could take place in Pakistan, calling the project an inspiring example of positive urban development. The Green Railway Corridor provides children with safe places to play while significantly improving the surrounding environment. It also demonstrates how public-private cooperation between PHA and Pakistan Railways can repurpose underutilized state land for community benefit. What's Next Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has directed authorities to remove all obstacles delaying the remaining phases and accelerate implementation. The project is divided into four packages, with additional parks and green spaces planned across the province.