Some governments leave behind a standard that remains undimmed by the noise of time, the ruthlessness of politics, or the dust of loud slogans. This standard is acknowledged by supporters and critics alike, albeit in different tones. Shehbaz Sharif’s tenure in Punjab is one such reference point—an era where decisions were not locked in files, projects did not die in press conferences, and the state machinery moved with the precision of a well-oiled machine. Every action progressed with clarity and pace. This is why, whenever development in Punjab is discussed today, it is subconsciously compared to “Shehbaz Speed,” which has now become a symbol of governance.
The Trendsetter’s Legacy
Shehbaz Sharif’s distinction lay in his ability to not only build projects but also introduce innovative trends. Many of his decisions faced severe criticism initially. The Metro Bus was mocked as the “Jangla Bus” (cage bus) and labeled a waste of billions. However, time proved that this concept became the blueprint for Peshawar’s BRT, Karachi’s Green Line, and electric buses across the country. The Dolphin Force was initially ridiculed, and the bike ambulance service was called a mere showpiece. Yet, when other provinces adopted these models, criticism turned into imitation. The reality is that the projects once mocked are now battlegrounds for taking credit—the ultimate proof of a leader being a trendsetter.
From infrastructure and security to energy, education, health, and urban management, no sector was ignored. Alongside the network of Metro buses, Orange Line, Ring Road expansions, and signal-free corridors, the energy sector saw immediate relief through solar parks and power plants. Social initiatives like the Punjab Educational Endowment Fund (PEEF), laptop schemes, Daanish Schools, and health reforms like PKLI and forensic labs were not just announcements—they were ground realities.
Re-branding vs. Reform
Governance is not merely about buildings made of brick and mortar; it is about building a modern system. Reforms in the Punjab Police, the shift in Thana (police station) culture, Front Desks, and Safe Cities were links in that vision. If those same reforms are now being presented under new names like "Public Safety Centers" or new uniforms, questions will naturally arise: Does changing a name change the direction? Spending public money on re-branding does not bring reform; reform requires vision and authority—a direction Shehbaz Sharif set long ago.
The waste management system is a clear example. The Lahore Waste Management Company (LWMC) was an attempt to institutionalize urban cleanliness through digital monitoring and international standards. Expanding this system to more cities under new slogans is a continuation, but not a new invention.
The Digital Footprint
Even in digitisation—be it land record computerisation or app-based services—the foundations were laid during that era. It was a time when social media had not yet become a powerhouse, yet its potential was recognised. Even harsh critics like Hassan Nisar couldn't help but praise institutions like the Punjab Food Authority. By providing regulatory space to services like Uber and Careem, the government paved the way for the gig economy and freelancing platforms that sustain millions today.
The Maryam Nawaz Era: A Comparison
When we look at Maryam Nawaz’s tenure in this context, the picture is not entirely "black and white." She has revived some old projects, such as free medicine delivery, and introduced new initiatives like "Suthra Punjab" (Clean Punjab), sewage upgrades, e-taxis, and IT internships. These steps are important, but many feel like a continuation of the Shehbaz vision rather than a groundbreaking new trend.
Furthermore, a significant difference lies in bureaucratic control. Shehbaz Sharif was known for his iron grip on the bureaucracy; conversely, the general perception of Maryam Nawaz is that the bureaucracy is running her.
Speed and Administration
The title “Punjab Speed,” gifted by China, was earned through the lightning-fast completion of CPEC projects. Today, work is visible, but the same grip on pace and discipline is missing. Recent administrative failures—such as the tragic manhole incident involving a mother and daughter—and subsequent apologies are signs of a slowdown. The public wonders why projects that were completed in under 100 days under Shehbaz now face delays. Even the recently launched state-of-the-art Food and Drug Authority project had its foundation stone laid back in 2016.
Policy and Aesthetics
The reversal of the Basant policy is another point of contention. While Shehbaz Sharif strictly enforced the 2005 Supreme Court ban, Maryam Nawaz’s move to reinstate it with "regulations" seems to contradict her own party’s previous stance. If the government cannot yet ensure 100% helmet compliance on the roads, how will it enforce invisible regulations in the skies?
Similarly, some "beautification" measures seem focused on temporary optics rather than long-term utility. Green belts on motor tracks that wash away in the rain, or plants in underpasses that obstruct emergency lanes, are examples of administrative weakness despite good intentions.
Conclusion
This analysis is not a dismissal of Maryam Nawaz’s efforts; it is a reality check. She possesses energy, intent, and desire, but the Chief Minister’s office is not a seat for learning—it is a place where learned skills are tested. If she wishes to secure a permanent place in Punjab’s political history, she must move beyond rebranding and "paint jobs."
She must introduce lasting trends that stand the test of time, much like how critics still praise Pervaiz Elahi’s "1122" service. Instead of selling "old wine in new bottles," she should focus on genuine innovation. While she is still in the early stages of her tenure, she has the advantage of having her father and uncle as political mentors at home. She must realize that leadership is judged by competence, not inheritance. Punjab today needs management over slogans and administration over publicity. In the realm of administration, the benchmark remains: "Shehbaz Speed.
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