The Punjab government has initiated a significant restructuring of its administrative framework, marking a historic step toward streamlined governance. In a recent announcement by Governor Sardar Saleem Haider, Punjab will now be organized into 10 divisions, 41 districts, and 216 tehsils, as per the official gazette notification issued on Thursday.
This revamp is seen as a strategic move to enhance administrative efficiency, improve governance, and provide better services to citizens.
Reinstating Gujrat Division
One of the highlights of this restructuring is the reinstatement of the Gujrat Division, which was initially established during Parvez Elahi’s tenure as Chief Minister. The division was dissolved by Shehbaz Sharif’s government but has now been restored, signaling the province’s focus on decentralization and localized administration.
Murree and Talagang Elevated to District Status
In a notable upgrade, Murree and Talagang have been granted the status of full-fledged districts. This decision reflects the government’s commitment to addressing regional demands and fostering development in these areas. Residents of these regions are optimistic about improved infrastructure, services, and representation in governance.
New Divisional Structure in Punjab
The revised administrative framework divides Punjab into the following 10 divisions:
- Lahore
- Rawalpindi
- Gujrat
- Gujranwala
- Faisalabad
- Sargodha
- Multan
- Sahiwal
- Dera Ghazi Khan
- Bahawalpur
Impact on Electoral Constituencies
This administrative overhaul will also impact electoral constituencies. Authorities have decided to realign the constituencies to align with the new divisional and district structure. This is expected to reflect demographic realities more accurately and ensure fair representation in future elections.
Also Read: Winter Vacations Announced for Colleges and Universities Across Pakistan
Why the Restructuring Matters
The decision is expected to:
- Streamline governance: Smaller administrative units will facilitate better service delivery and reduce bureaucratic bottlenecks.
- Enhance development: Newly formed districts and tehsils can now receive targeted funds and resources for local projects.
- Improve representation: Realignment of electoral constituencies ensures that all regions have fair political representation.
Looking Ahead
As Punjab undergoes these transformative changes, it sets a precedent for other provinces to revisit their administrative frameworks. While challenges remain in implementing such large-scale reforms, the government’s move signals a commitment to progressive governance and improved public administration.