In a landmark move to promote literacy and preserve cultural heritage, the Punjab government has launched a dual initiative in Wazirabad that includes the installation of 15 micro-libraries and the construction of cultural “City Walls.”
The programme, part of the Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz’s “Parho Punjab” initiative, is designed to foster reading habits and showcase the cultural identity of small towns across the province.
Micro-libraries installed across public spaces
The first phase of the programme has seen the installation of 15 micro-libraries—book boxes provided by the local community—across three prominent parks in Wazirabad: City Park, Municipal Park in Gakhar Mandi, and Family Park in Alipur Chattha.
Each park has been equipped with five book boxes containing a diverse selection of books aimed at promoting reading in public spaces. These micro-libraries in Punjab are rainproof to protect the books from adverse weather and will be expanded to railway stations and transport waiting areas to further encourage reading among the public.
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Local book lovers and park visitors have praised the initiative, and according to Wazirabad Assistant Commissioner Rab Nawaz Chadhar, the program will soon extend to other public spaces. While some residents have noted that engagement with the book boxes is currently low, they believe interest will grow with time and proper maintenance.
Cultural heritage highlighted with city walls
In addition to the literacy drive, the project aims to celebrate Wazirabad’s rich cultural history through the construction of “City Walls.” These walls, erected in the Wazirabad tehsil, prominently feature historical depictions of towns like Wazirabad, Alipur Chatha, and Gakhar.
As part of Chief Minister Maryam’s vision, the initiative seeks to highlight the cultural and historical significance of these small towns, turning them into cultural landmarks.
Community and official support
A faculty member from the University of Gujrat praised the initiative, highlighting the importance of promoting authentic information in an era dominated by social media.
In light of the success in Wazirabad, Gujranwala Deputy Commissioner Naveed Ahmed, who also holds charge of Wazirabad, has commended the efforts and directed other Assistant Commissioners to replicate the program across Gujranwala district in collaboration with civil society. CM Maryam has also issued directions to expand the model across the province.
