The Rawalpindi Revenue Department has submitted a proposal to the Punjab government to establish five new tehsils within the Rawalpindi Division. The initiative is part of a broader strategy to address administrative challenges and enhance service delivery in the region.
Proposed Timeline and Distribution
The proposed expansion is set to be implemented in the fiscal year 2025-26. The distribution of the new tehsils will be as follows:
- Rawalpindi District: 2 new tehsils
- Attock District: 1 new tehsil
- Jhelum District: 1 new tehsil
- Chakwal District: 1 new tehsil
Background and Feasibility
The proposal is a response to a Punjab government circular issued three months ago, directing deputy commissioners in all 42 districts to submit feasibility reports for additional tehsils. Feedback indicated a pressing need for expansion in most districts, with Rawalpindi emerging as a priority due to its population density and administrative load.
Current Structure of Rawalpindi District
Rawalpindi District presently comprises seven tehsils:
- Rawalpindi
- Kahuta
- Kallar Syedan
- Gujar Khan
- Taxila
- Saddar
- Cantonment
Historically, the district also included Murree and Kotli Sattian, which were reassigned to Murree District.
The addition of two new tehsils would increase the total to nine, facilitating improved governance and service delivery.
Benefits of Creating New Tehsils
The establishment of new administrative units is expected to:
- Decentralize Administration: Streamline processes and reduce bureaucratic bottlenecks.
- Enhance Service Delivery: Improve access to healthcare, education, and legal services, particularly in underserved areas.
- Address Urbanization Challenges: Manage the impact of population growth and urban sprawl more effectively.
- Improve Resource Allocation: Ensure equitable distribution of resources across different regions within the district.
Broader Regional Impact
In addition to the tehsil expansions, the Punjab government is considering the creation of two new districts within the Rawalpindi Division. This move aims to enhance administrative efficiency, promote balanced development, and improve the overall quality of life for residents.
As the 2025-26 fiscal year approaches, stakeholders and residents remain optimistic about these proposed changes, anticipating significant improvements in governance and public service delivery across the Rawalpindi Division.
