Islamabad 08 Sep, 09: In order to ensure swift implementation of AJ&K Urban Development Projects a meeting between Chinese Ambassador Mr. Luo Zhaohui and ERRA’s Deputy Chairman Lt Gen Sajjad Akram was held at ERRA Headquarters Islamabad. It was agreed in principle to fast track achievement of prerequisites so that the work on Muzaffarabad, Rawalakot and Bagh Development Projects could be initiated soon.

It should be noted that Two Chinese Companies are already assisting ERRA for the completion of Urban Development Programme in three cities of AJ&K, MoU for which was signed in Feb 2009.

Camp Offices of Chinese Companies will be established in all the three cities of Muzaffarabad, Rawalakot and Bagh whereas a Design Office will also be established in Islamabad to facilitate coordination to boost the pace of work. Chinese Companies were asked to complete all the pending actions at their end whereas Deputy Chairman ERRA Lt Gen Sajjad Akram also issued instructions to contractors to ensure completion of Muzaffarabad-Athmuqam Road by June 2010.

China will also assist ERRA in construction of Civil Hospital and Govt Higher Secondary School at Baffa, Mansehra. The cost of the projects is US $11.72 Million and it will provide modern day facilities with all the necessary infrastructure to ensure good education and health facilities to locals of Mansehra.

Deputy Chairman ERRA while thanking China’s assistance to ERRA said that China is a true friend and their continued support is reflective of the deep bonds of Pak-China friendship. Chinese Ambassador said that ERRA is working for a noble cause and China will keep on helping ERRA till all the targets are successfully achieved.