Punjab Minister Launches New Sanitation Initiative for Cleaner Cities

In recent years, sanitation has emerged as a critical issue in urban areas across Pakistan, particularly in Punjab, where rapid population growth has put immense pressure on existing waste management systems. The Punjab Local Government Minister, Zeeshan Rafiq, has announced a new sanitation initiative aimed at transforming the province's cleanliness and overall quality of life for its residents. This initiative is not just about cleaning; it is about creating a more beautiful and livable Punjab.

During a video link meeting with the CEOs of various waste management companies, Minister Rafiq emphasized the importance of the new sanitation system, which is set to serve the province's population of 80.6 million. The first phase of this ambitious project will focus on providing top-notch sanitation services, ensuring that every corner of Punjab is clean and well-maintained. The meeting also included key officials such as Punjab Local Government Secretary Shakeel Ahmed Mian and LWMC CEO Babar Sahib Din, who discussed the details of the plan.

One of the significant aspects of this initiative is the outsourcing of solid waste management under the “Suthra Punjab programme.” This program aims to enhance the efficiency of waste management services by selecting qualified contractors in 103 tehsils. Minister Rafiq announced that preparations for waste management in major cities like Lahore, Gujranwala, Sialkot, Multan, Bahawalpur, DG Khan, and Faisalabad have already been completed. He also mentioned that the Sargodha and Sahiwal Waste Management Companies would be outsourced in the next phase, indicating a systematic approach to improving sanitation across the province.

Furthermore, the minister revealed that Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz is set to inaugurate this unique cleaning program on December 3. This event is expected to mark a significant step towards a cleaner Punjab. Rafiq urged the CEOs to launch a cleanliness awareness campaign and to ensure that a one-time zero waste initiative is completed in every tehsil without delay. He stressed that private contractors would be expected to gradually enhance their efficiency and service quality.

To support these efforts, the local government department will provide training for the technical staff of contractors. This training aims to ensure that complaints lodged through the dashboard and the Suthra Punjab app are addressed promptly. The provincial control room will monitor all outsourcing processes, ensuring that the necessary human resources and machinery are available to meet the demands of this extensive program.

The new sanitation system in Punjab represents a significant commitment to improving public health and environmental conditions in the province. By focusing on cleanliness and efficient waste management, the government aims to enhance the quality of life for millions of residents. As this initiative unfolds, it will be crucial for all stakeholders, including the public, to actively participate in maintaining a clean and beautiful Punjab. A cleaner environment not only benefits individual health but also contributes to the overall prosperity of the community.