The Punjab government has approved Rs580.632 million to establish the Maryam Nawaz Satellite Campus for Autism in Rawalpindi, a specialised facility planned to provide free treatment and care for children with autism.
The construction contract is scheduled to be awarded through open bidding on November 4, 2026. A tender has been issued for the construction of the main medical centre and its associated infrastructure.
The project is intended to expand access to specialised services for children and families in Rawalpindi. However, details about the centre’s opening date, staffing arrangements and admission process have not yet been provided in the available project information.
Rawalpindi Autism Centre to Include Two Floors and Rooftop
The approved project covers construction of the building’s ground floor, first floor and rooftop structure, along with essential utilities and support facilities.
The planned works include electrical installations, plumbing, gas connections, a guard room, garages and a canteen. The development will also include a boundary wall, entrance gates, parking sheds and paved outdoor areas.
Also read: How to apply for the Maryam Nawaz Health Clinic
Water infrastructure will comprise an overhead reservoir with a capacity of 10,000 gallons and an underground tank capable of holding 20,000 gallons. A borewell and submersible pump are also included in the plan.
The facility is expected to have a fire alarm system, CCTV cameras, internet cabling and air-conditioning.
Free Care Planned for Children With Autism
Autism is a neurodevelopmental condition that can affect communication, social interaction, behaviour and sensory processing. Support needs vary from child to child, making individual assessment and appropriate educational and therapeutic services important.
The Punjab government has previously established autism-focused services in Lahore. According to the Punjab Special Education Department, the Maryam Nawaz School and Resource Centre for Autism was inaugurated in February 2026 to provide structured learning, therapeutic intervention and a supportive environment for children on the autism spectrum.
The Rawalpindi satellite campus would extend the government’s autism-care initiative to another major city. Its practical impact will depend on the services available once the facility becomes operational, including access to trained professionals and suitable support for children and their families.
November 4 Bidding Date Is the Next Milestone
The next key step is the award of the construction contract through open bidding on November 4. The procurement process will determine the contractor responsible for delivering the building and associated development works.
Families will also need clear information about when the centre is expected to open, how children will be assessed, which services will be offered and how families can apply for free care.
The Rs580.632 million allocation marks a significant planned investment in specialised facilities for children with autism.
Transparent procurement, timely construction and properly staffed services will be important in translating that investment into accessible support for families in Rawalpindi.
