The Punjab Intermediate Cities Improvement and Investment Programme (PICIIP) is a Government of Punjab development initiative, supported by international development partners (notably the World Bank), aimed at improving urban infrastructure and service delivery in selected intermediate cities of Punjab.
What is PICIIP?
PICIIP focuses on strengthening municipal services, urban management, and infrastructure in medium-sized cities that lie between major metropolitan areas and small towns. These cities often face rapid population growth but lack adequate infrastructure investment.
Key Objectives of PICIIP
- Improve urban infrastructure (roads, drainage, sewerage, water supply)
- Upgrade public spaces and mobility corridors
- Enhance municipal planning, governance, and financial management
- Reduce urban flooding and sanitation issues
- Support sustainable and climate-resilient urban development
Types of Projects Under PICIIP
- Sewerage and drainage systems
- Road rehabilitation and traffic management
- Water supply and wastewater treatment
- Solid waste management improvements
- Urban beautification and public amenities
Cities Covered
The programme targets selected intermediate cities in Punjab, including cities like Sahiwal, Sialkot, Multan, Sargodha, Muzaffargarh, Rahim Yar Khan, Bahawalpur, Rawalpindi and Rajanpur where major infrastructure works are being carried out under PICIIP.
Implementing Agencies
- Local Government & Community Development Department (LG&CD), Punjab
- District administrations
- Municipal corporations and development authorities
- Line departments such as Irrigation, PHA, and WASA (where applicable)
Why PICIIP Matters
PICIIP helps:
- Reduce traffic congestion and urban service disruptions
- Improve quality of life for residents
- Strengthen city institutions for long-term urban growth
- Ensure transparency and quality in public sector development projects
In short, PICIIP is a major urban reform and investment programme designed to modernize Punjab’s intermediate cities and make them more livable, resilient, and well-managed.