Gujranwala's waste problem brings government priorities into question

Most affected areas are GT Road, Dhallay Chowk and Hafizabad Road

GUJRANWALA: Gujranwala is currently facing inadequate sanitation and cleanliness. Garbage heaps can be seen strewn in different localities of the city, speaking volumes about the efficiency of departments concerned.

Despite the tall claims made by authorities concerned regarding cleanliness, almost every locality in the city is in pathetic shape. This has resulted in inconvenience to citizens, in addition to posing health risks.

The conditions are deteriorating with each passing day as the district administration and the company responsible to dispose of garbage, are seemingly unable to ensure cleanliness in the city.

The situation has raised several questions regarding the government’s priorities. The prevailing condition poses a threat to the atmosphere and ecological system of the city.

It could also trigger an outbreak of different diseases in the area.

In each and every corner, especially open spaces, locals discover heaps of garbage and waste. The most affected areas include GT Road, Dhallay Chowk, Hafizabad Road and other areas where entire streets are littered with trash. Similary, heaps of garbage could be seen around Ayesha Park and City Park where families and children come in large numbers to spent time in evenings.

When Express News surveyed the area, it was found that the cleanliness arrangements in the entire city are disappointing. Accumulated sewage and heaps of garbage have made the lives of the residents miserable.

Local residents say it is unfortunate that the district administration is not taking the unsanitary conditions seriously.

They said that solid waste management and municipal corporation officials have failed to dispose of the garbage and maintain cleanliness in the area.

The irate residents pointed out that it is necessary to lift garbage and clean the streets. Failure to do can result in an outbreak of diseases, they added.

They lamented the fact that despite lodging complaints, the officials concerned are not paying any heed to the matter.

Published in The Express Tribune, November 17^th, 2018.