The Punjab government has rolled out a major development initiative focused on overhauling the sewage and drainage infrastructure across the province’s major cities, with an emphasis on long-term improvements in water management and urban facilities.
Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz led a key meeting to review the status of ongoing infrastructure projects, including those under the Water and Sanitation (WATSAN) framework. During the session, she gave approval to a large-scale sewage and drainage plan, which will cover 189 cities with populations over 100,000. This comprehensive program is seen as a crucial step in addressing persistent sanitation challenges in the province.
Key aspects of the initiative include:
- Sewage Bypass Systems and Disposal Stations: The construction of bypass systems and new disposal stations to improve wastewater management, alleviating pressure on the existing infrastructure and enhancing overall sanitation.
- Rainwater Storage and Recycling: Large-scale rainwater harvesting systems will be established to collect and store excess water during the monsoon season. This water will be repurposed for irrigation, agricultural, and other practical uses, helping to conserve freshwater resources.
- New Sewage and Water Supply Pipelines: A network of new pipelines will be installed strategically across cities to ensure the safe and effective transport of sewage and clean water, reducing contamination risks and improving water distribution.
- Road Renovation and Construction: The project will also include the restoration and construction of up to 30 kilometers of roads in each provincial constituency, aiming to improve transportation access, reduce congestion, and boost local economies.
Additionally, the meeting reviewed a proposal for the development of model villages under the Punjab Development Program, which was also approved for immediate implementation. These model villages will serve as benchmarks for rural development, showcasing sustainable infrastructure and modern urban planning practices.
In her address, Maryam Nawaz emphasized that the Clean Punjab Program would bring substantial benefits to urban areas by providing a resilient sewage system that not only protects public health but also prevents road damage caused by poor drainage. The program will also play a vital role in upgrading infrastructure, making the province more livable and environmentally responsible.
The chief minister reassured the public that the project would be executed in phases, with priority given to cities most in need of sewage system improvements. Through these efforts, the Punjab government aims to enhance the quality of life for its residents and support sustainable development across the province.
