LAHORE: The government is all set to start distributing as many as 1.5 million eco-friendly, biodegradable plastic bags free of cost from Monday among Lahorites for the safe collection and disposal of sacrificial animal offal during the three days of Eidul Azha, starting from June 7.

Under the special Eid plan to ensure cleanliness and accessibility, 300 dedicated Eid camps have been established across Lahore.

Furthermore, 104 temporary waste collection points and four dedicated dumping sites located at Lakhodair, Saggian, Tibba, and Sundar have been activated to facilitate the swift and efficient collection and disposal of offal.

In order to maintain uninterrupted service, the leaves of more than 15,000 sanitation workers, drivers, and support staff have been cancelled. Over 20,000 personnel, including more than 3,000 drivers and 2,000 support staff, will be working in three shifts during the operation.

The entire Eid cleanliness drive will be monitored round the clock through a live digital monitoring system operated from the Lahore Waste Management Company’s operational control room, which will also provide immediate redressal of public complaints. Citizens can report any issues via the 1139 helpline, which remains fully functional 24/7.

Additionally, drone cameras will be deployed to monitor illegal dumping of waste, especially in canals and other concealed areas. Extra sanitation staff has been deployed at bus terminals, commercial markets, and other public gathering spots to ensure thorough cleanliness.

In parallel with waste collection, the teams are conducting extensive awareness campaigns to encourage citizens to use the eco-friendly waste bags and dispose of sacrificial waste properly. These bags are being distributed at Eid camps, mosques, key city locations, and Union Councils. The initiative also includes cleanliness and awareness camps set up at cattle markets, where sanitation teams and machinery are actively engaged.

The LWMC’s entire fleet and machinery have been fully mobilized for the Eid operation. This includes 107 excavators and 197 trollies.

Additionally, 600 extra pickups will operate in residential areas during the first two days to collect offal. Operational equipment and supplies have been distributed to all town offices to ensure seamless activity. Cleaning and washing of 181 designated slaughter points will be ensured throughout the Eid period.

On the other hand, cleanliness teams on Sunday executed sanitation measures at Gaddafi Stadium during the Pakistan vs. Bangladesh T20 cricket series, ensuring a clean and pleasant environment for cricket fans. Prior to each match, more than 250 sanitation workers and 8 washer vehicles were deployed to thoroughly clean and wash the stadium and surrounding areas.

Additionally, over 50 sanitation workers ensured cleanliness in the parking areas and around the stadium. Mechanical sweepers were deployed along the main routes leading to and from the stadium to maintain cleanliness on access roads.

According to a spokesman for LWMC, more than 200 sanitation workers and 15 supervisors were stationed inside the stadium during the matches.

Furthermore, each enclosure had 15 dedicated workers and one supervisor on duty to maintain cleanliness throughout the events. For dust control, two water bowsers were assigned to sprinkle water around the stadium premises.

Published in Dawn, June 2nd, 2025