PESHAWAR, Dec 30: NWFP Minister for Local Government and Rural Development Sardar Muhammad Idrees has directed all town municipal officers of district Peshawar to launch an operation against encroachments in Peshawar and sought a report in this regard by Dec 31.

"Strict disciplinary action would be taken against TMOs failing to comply with the order," he added. He issued these directives while presiding over a high-level meeting regarding the problems faced by the people of Peshawar here on Wednesday.

Sardar Idrees said that illegal encroachments and load of traffic had increased the problems of the people of the city. He directed the department concerned to complete the operation against encroachments by Dec 31.

He said that he will visit the Chowk Yadgar, Sabzi Mandi, Reti Bazar, Ashraf Road, Bacha Khan Chowk, Charsadda Road and Board Bazar after the clean-up operation the same day. He also directed the police high-ups to implement the traffic plan after anti-encroachment operation on these roads.

Provincial Minister for Information Asif Iqbal Daudzai pointed out that 'Faseel-i-Shehr', the historical boundary wall of Peshawar city, was being dismantled by vested interest and shops and plazas were being constructed there. He urged immediate action against these elements.

The local government minister ordered TMO Town I to submit reports regarding this historical wall to him and take action against those involved in its demolition.

The minister constituted a sub-committee headed by Town Nazim II Mumtaz Khan and asked it to work out a strategy and identify a site for the disposal of city's garbage. He said a modern treatment plant would be installed for the disposal of garbage with the financial assistance of the Environmental Protection Agency.

He called for quick completion of repairs and beautification of the Wazir Bagh. He pointed out that Rs2.5 million had already been allocated for the purpose. Separate meetings of all town committees of Peshawar would be held on January 4, 13 and 14, in order to chalk out a comprehensive strategy for the solution of problems confronting the residents of Peshawar. -APP