TAXILA: The Clean Punjab Programme, aimed at overhauling urban and rural waste management systems through public-private partnership, formally inaugurated in Attock. The MNA Sheikh Aftab Ahmed inaugurated the programme in a simple but impressive ceremony held at a local hall.

The event was presided over by Rawalpindi Commissioner Engineer Aamir Khattak and attended by several prominent figures, including former provincial minister for mines Chaudhry Sher Ali.

Under the programme, daily targets have been assigned to municipal bodies. The primary focus includes comprehensive cleaning and enhancement of sewage and drainage systems, as well as improving the overall cleanliness of streets and neighborhoods in both urban and rural sectors.

The initiative also embraces environmentally friendly activities, emphasizing good sanitation practices and timely waste management.

Addressing the inauguration ceremony as chief guest, MNA Sheikh Aftab Ahmed said launching of solid waste management services in Attock districtreflects Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif’s clean Punjab vision, and the provision of modern sanitation facilities for the people is a remarkable initiative by the Punjab government. He was of the view that the clean Punjab programme would bring a revolutionary change across the province. Sheikh Aftab explained that the programme aims to improve the waste management system in urban and rural areas through public-private partnerships.

He described the clean Punjab programme’s vision as a transformative initiative aimed at overhauling the urban and rural waste management system.

He revealed that the Rs120 billion project would eliminate the cleanliness-related issues once for all in the province.

He was of the view that around 60,000 tonnes of waste is collected daily in Punjab, and a modern waste management system is being implemented to ensure its efficient disposal.

Published in Dawn, January 9th, 2025