Regular survey of manholes urged

Punjab Minister for Local Government and Community Development (LGCD) Zeeshan Rafique called for vigorous measures for elimination of enchantments from the city roads. Chairing a meeting, the minister stressed the need for using latest equipment to tackle the issues of sewerage, saying that surveys of manholes in streets and colonies should be conducted regularly. He mentioned that the scope of the ‘Saaf Suthra Punjab’ programme was being gradually extended. Attention is also being given to ending wall-chalking during cleanliness campaigns. The minister directed that areas commonly overlooked during cleanliness campaigns should be the primary target. He expressed a strong commitment to addressing sewage issues by utilising all available means. Read: Four cousins drown in Buner manhole Zeeshan Rafique emphasised the significant role of urban residents in cleanliness campaigns, citing awareness among the public. He stressed the need for organised awareness campaigns. He called for a sustained and systematic survey of alleyways for the removal of wall-chalking. He emphasised prompt action for covering open manholes and addressing complaints regarding salaries in some municipal offices. Assuring salary payments to employees, he urged active involvement of relevant municipal branches in curbing encroachments. Highlighting preparations for the coming Eid rush, the minister urged the provision of necessary facilities at bus stops. He announced the expeditious posting of personnel to vacant positions across the municipal service sector. He cautioned of strict action over complaints related to parking stands in major cities. The minister commended the efforts to revive the historic Shah Ghaus Mahmood Library at Dehli Gate under the MCL. Deputy Commissioner Rafia Haider said in a briefing that 91 municipal schemes had been completed recently, with 65 others nearing completion. The MCL’s focus was on street lights and water filtration plants, she added.   Published in The Express Tribune, March 11th, 2024.