Minister Zeeshan Rafiq reaffirms uninterrupted Suthra Punjab cleanliness operations

LAHORE, Jul 01 (APP): Minister for Local Government Zeeshan Rafiq, in a statement posted on social media platform X, said that the Suthra Punjab sanitation teams are continuing their cleanliness operations across Lahore and the rest of the province with commitment and according to routine.

He said the nation had witnessed the historic cleanliness arrangements made during Eid-ul-Azha and the first ten days of Muharram, reflecting the dedication and efficiency of the Suthra Punjab workforce.

Referring to concerns raised by some sanitation workers regarding the Eid-ul-Azha bonus, the Minister said that a few workers at certain locations had expressed apprehensions that the bonus might not be paid. Taking immediate notice of the matter, the Suthra Punjab administration held negotiations with the concerned workers earlier today (Wednesday) and assured them that the bonus would be paid in accordance with the approved policy. Following these assurances, the issue was resolved amicably. He added that all sanitation operations are currently continuing smoothly without any disruption.

Zeeshan Rafiq stated that Suthra Punjab is the flagship initiative of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif and the world’s largest waste management programme, providing employment to nearly 180,000 families across the province. He emphasized that the project ensures payment of at least the minimum prescribed wage, promotes workers’ welfare, and provides a safe and improved working environment in line with the Government’s priorities.

The Minister further said that the Suthra Punjab project is being monitored through a transparent digital system. While certain elements are attempting to create misconceptions and undermine the success of the initiative, workers’ representatives and unions are extending their full cooperation to the Government of Punjab and the Suthra Punjab administration. Field teams across Punjab continue to effectively supervise sanitation operations and are committed to delivering the best possible municipal services to the public.

If this is intended for international media or official government dissemination, “world’s largest integrated waste management programme” may be a more polished rendering than “world’s largest waste management programme,” provided that description aligns with the government’s official wording.