Reforms under ‘Suthra’ Punjab programme reviewed: CM introduces first ‘Electric Vehicles & Waste-to-Value Project’

LAHORE: Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz Sharif, while chairing a special meeting, to review progress and future reforms under “Suthra” Punjab programme, accorded approval of a comprehensive plan to modernize provincial sanitation system in the province.

Key initiatives of this first-ever programme in the history of Punjab included introduction of electric vehicles for sanitation, a “Waste-to-Value” project, digital transparency systems and strict penalties to curb littering. Earlier, the CM was given a detailed briefing on several strategic decisions to further modernize cleanliness system across Punjab. She directed to ensure introduction of modern electric sanitation vehicles. She also directed to launch a comprehensive plan for the said project by mid-January, aimed at transforming waste into usable resources under “Waste-to-Value” project.

She said that this extensive sanitation system is nothing short of a miracle. She added that a comprehensive cleanliness system for cities and villages should have been established years ago.

The CM underscored that the Punjab government started from zero and we are further streamlining “Suthra” Punjab program with the passage of time. She highlighted that people are giving positive feedback on improvements being made in every public welfare and uplift project across Punjab.

Authorities concerned briefed chief minister Punjab that individuals spreading garbage in commercial areas or on roads will face legal action and fines. Officials further briefed her that for the first time, sanitation staff will also be deployed on Sundays to ensure uninterrupted cleanliness operations.

It was agreed during the meeting that modern mechanical sweepers will replace old-style manual sweeping to enhance efficiency.

The authorities further apprised the CM that each Union Council will see an increase in the number of sanitation workers, “heroes” of “Suthra” Punjab programme.

The chief minister reviewed a proposal to provide one tractor for every two Union Councils. Relevant officials further briefed the CM that dedicated waste enclosures will be established for dustbins and garbage containers to maintain organized waste collection.

Authorities concerned apprised that salary and payment system under “Suthra” Punjab have been fully digitalized to ensure transparency. They added that a vehicle tracking management system and live container monitoring have already been activated. They further apprised the CM that performance of waste management companies is now being evaluated through a formal KPI-based scoring system.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2025