Lahore: Punjab Local Government Minister Zeeshan Rafiq announced the implementation of a new sanitation system aimed at enhancing cleanliness and public health across both urban and rural areas of the province. This initiative, highlighted during a video conference with CEOs of waste management companies, marks a significant step towards establishing a sustainable and healthy environment in Punjab.

According to Directorate General Public Relation – Govt of Punjab, Minister Rafiq presided over the meeting at the Civil Secretariat, which was also attended by Secretary Local Government Shakeel Ahmed Mian among other key officials. The meeting focused on the progress of outsourcing the sanitation system, ensuring that all legal and procedural requirements are met swiftly and efficiently.

Minister Rafiq emphasized the urgency of the new system, aligning with Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif’s vision for a standardized sanitation framework throughout Punjab. He instructed the CEOs to finalize the next steps within 10 days following the bidding process, stressing the importance of inclusivity in sanitation services that had previously overlooked the rural population.

The new system, inspired by models in developed countries, aims to facilitate easier waste management practices and includes the establishment of safe waste dumping sites. Rafiq also highlighted the introduction of a robust monitoring mechanism for contractors to ensure compliance and efficiency once the system is operational.

Additionally, Rafiq noted that while the initial phase might encounter technical challenges, the long-term benefits would streamline waste collection services directly to citizens for a nominal fee, enhancing their quality of life. Secretary Mian directed that the selection of contractors should adhere strictly to the stipulated bidding procedures, with regular updates to be shared within the designated communication groups.