Vehari faces sanitation crisis

Citizens lament failed sewerage, waste management systems

VEHARI:

The city of Vehari is grappling with sanitation crisis, as overflowing sewage, heaps of garbage and a paralysed solid waste management system have turned urban neighbourhoods into virtual dumping grounds.

Streets, alleyways, and marketplaces in Vehari and its surrounding areas are inundated with waste and stagnant water, releasing unbearable stench and creating serious health hazards.

Citizens complained that neighbourhoods such as 9/11 WB, People's Colony, Liaqatpura, Teen Marla Scheme, Bhatti Colony, and others are worst affected, with garbage piling up on every corner.

Areas housing the Solid Waste Management Company's offices—such as Lalar Zaar and Muslim Town—are also engulfed in filth, further highlighting the administration's failure.

Locals claim that the sewerage system has completely collapsed, resulting in overflowing gutters and flooded streets, raising fears of disease outbreaks.

The situation has worsened due to the alleged irresponsible behaviour of company officials and staff.

Sources report that some officers have been accused of misconduct towards female workers, prompting sanitation staff to go on strike in protest. The suspension of cleaning operations has intensified the crisis.

Residents including Muhammad Fayaz and Sajjad Ahmad called for strict action against those responsible for negligence and misconduct.