On November 29, 2024, Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz announced the launch of the Solid Waste Management Punjab Suthra project, aimed at enhancing cleanliness across cities, neighborhoods, and the overall environment of the province. The initiative is part of a broader effort to implement a comprehensive sanitation system in Punjab.
Launch of the Suthra Punjab App
The Suthra Punjab App was officially launched on December 3, 2024, during a meeting at the LWMC office. Local Government Minister Zeeshan Rafique inaugurated the program, which is designed to facilitate effective waste management and promote community engagement in cleanliness efforts.
Key Features of the Suthra Punjab Program
- Comprehensive Sanitation System: The initiative will establish safe dumping sites in every tehsil and implement door-to-door waste collection services.
- Zero-Waste Management Mission: CM Maryam Nawaz emphasized the goal of achieving a zero-waste management mission within three months.
- Public-Private Partnership: The program is a collaborative effort aimed at optimizing sanitation efforts and standardizing operations across urban and rural areas.
Outsourcing and Community Engagement
To enhance the program’s effectiveness, 110 out of 149 tehsils in Punjab have been outsourced for waste management. The Suthra Punjab App allows residents to provide feedback and report issues related to cleanliness, ensuring community involvement in the initiative.
Job Creation and Resource Allocation
The Suthra Punjab initiative is set to create 100,000 job opportunities, with 88,000 positions already filled. The program also includes the allocation of 21,000 cleaning machines and 25,000 garbage collection vehicles to streamline waste management operations. Trackers will be installed in vehicles to monitor sanitation efforts effectively.
Targeting Lahore and Rural Areas
The program aims to cover 1.5 million homes in Lahore through a massive cleaning campaign, which includes door-to-door garbage collection and training for drainage operations in central markets and villages. For the first time, rural areas will receive equal attention under the Suthra Punjab initiative, ensuring that cleanliness is prioritized across the province.
Advanced Monitoring Systems
To ensure accountability and efficiency, the program will implement Artificial Intelligence monitoring systems in all districts and tehsils. This technology will facilitate strict oversight of waste management practices.
Conclusion
The Punjab Suthra program, spearheaded by Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, represents a significant step towards establishing a robust sanitation and cleaning system in Punjab. With its focus on community engagement, job creation, and advanced monitoring, the initiative aims to foster a cleaner and healthier environment for all residents. For more information, residents are encouraged to visit the official government website or utilize the dedicated helpline at 1139 for feedback and inquiries.
I am resident of Taxila rural area want to be the part of this program in my area