LWMC launches ‘dust-free’ city plan
A man with his face covered with a scarf rides his scooter through a dusty neighbourhood on a smoggy day in Delhi, India, November 15, 2017. PHOTO: REUTERS
Punjab Caretaker Chief Minister Mohsin Naqvi has initiated a plan to transform the provincial capital into a dust-free city, targeting 79 roads for dust reduction to combat environmental pollution in Lahore.
He formally kicked off the road washing programme, overseeing the process on Jail Road this Saturday. Mohsin Naqvi closely monitored the road washing operations conducted by mechanical washers, sweepers, and tractor sweepers.
He directed that road washing should avoid noon and evening times to maintain smooth traffic flow. Additionally, he urged stringent actions against those illegally dumping debris along roadsides.
Lahore Waste Management Company (LWMC) CEO Babar Sahibdin provided details about the 79-road washing programme during a briefing.
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The CM was informed that 18 mechanical washers, 12 mechanical sweepers, and 40 tractor sweepers were actively involved in the process, working in three shifts to clear construction and demolition material along with garbage.
All identified points are expected to become zero waste areas within the next 48 hours.
In a media interaction, CM Naqvi expressed concern about Lahore being the world’s most polluted city due to smog.
Despite examinations, winter vacations will commence from Dec 18. While acknowledging the absence of rain, he emphasised efforts to combat smog by reducing dust and traffic. The LWMC will wash 79 roads twice a week, following the pattern of Saudi Arabia.
The CM emphasized that citizens should also make their homes dust-free, expressing determination to make Lahore completely dust-free. He hopes that reducing dust through washing will contribute to lowering smog levels.
Published in The Express Tribune, December 10th, 2023.