LAHORE: For cleanliness and urban management, the Lahore district administration on Friday intensified operations to remove illegal encroachments, particularly shanties and stray animals.

The ongoing operations are part of a broader initiative to ensure a cleaner and more organised environment in Lahore. The administration has mobilised its officers to actively monitor and manage cleanliness efforts across various zones of the city.

Shalimar Assistant Commissioner (AC) Dr Anum Fatima visited Multani Colony in union council (UC) No 146 and 163. During her inspection, she directed the Lahore Waste Management Company (LWMC) to clear a specific dumping point immediately. Additionally, she instructed the town staff to ensure the prompt removal of any animals present in the area, highlighting the administration’s commitment to maintaining public health and safety.

Ravi AC Shabir Tariq also took proactive measures by assessing cleanliness efforts around the vegetable market. He urged LWMC workers to implement effective cleaning arrangements, ensuring that the area remains tidy and hygienic for vendors and customers alike. His focus on cleanliness reflects the administration’s recognition of the importance of maintaining sanitary conditions in bustling market areas.

Meanwhile, Wagah AC Muhammad Aamir Butt visited the Sootar Mill Bazaar to evaluate the sewage system. He directed both LWMC and Wasa (Water and Sanitation Agency) to expedite the cleaning of the sewage lines, emphasizing the need for efficient waste management systems to prevent flooding and health hazards.

In another operation, AC Wagah also oversaw the eviction of shanties along GT Road, Kot Dhuni Chand, Dyal, and Lakhan Sharif. This multi-faceted approach aims to not only clear illegal encroachments but also to improve the overall aesthetic and functional aspects of the city.

City AC Babar Ali Rai inspected cleanliness measures at the Multan Road Fruit and Vegetable Market and issued strict directives to the secretary of the Market Committee to take stringent action against vendors who litter the market area.

Furthermore, he instructed the LWMC to ensure the placement of waste containers within the market to facilitate proper waste disposal. He also assessed sewage system at Tollinton Market, urging relevant Wasa officials to enhance the sewage infrastructure to prevent blockages and overflow, which can lead to unsanitary conditions.

Iqbal Town AC Khwaja Muhammad Umair Mahmood conducted a thorough inspection at the Thokar Niaz Baig Bridge, where he evaluated cleanliness measures and directed LWMC and Parks and Horticulture Authority (PHA) teams to clear waste from the area promptly. He also addressed sewage issues outside the Government Girls College in Chuhng, ensuring that necessary repairs and maintenance were carried out.

The district administration sought community involvement in maintaining cleanliness and order. On the other hand the admin also launched a robust crackdown on the encroachment mafia. Commercial Structures on Jati Umra Road were demolished. Notices were issued to all business owners to obtain approval for their building plans.

Anti-encroachment operations were also carried out at Vegetable Market, Batapur and Jallo Mor, GT Road’s service road.

Published in Dawn, January 11th, 2025