CM warns DCs over stubble burning

Expresses displeasure over delays and substandard work on beautification projects

LAHORE:

Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has directed deputy commissioners (DCs) to ensure a halt to the burning of crop residue, warning officials of Okara and other districts over their failure to prevent the acts.

Chairing a meeting on the performance of the DCs, she also expressed displeasure over delays and substandard work on beautification projects in several districts, stressing that quality, sustainability and timely completion must remain the administration's priorities.

Punjab Performance Management Unit head Shoaib Mirza presented district Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) reports and the chief minister commended the administrations of Murree, Gujranwala, Attock, Bahawalpur, Chakwal, Jhelum, Layyah and Sahiwal for their performance.

She directed authorities to incorporate fountains and other water features into beautification schemes and form road-maintenance squads to inspect sites and take corrective measures within 12 hours.

She also called for ensuring that all streetlights remained functional, manholes were properly covered, and zebra crossings and school safety arrangements were improved.

The chief minister gave the DCs three days to improve conditions at government hospitals and directed them and the assistant commissioners (ACs) to visit the facilities daily.

She also ordered daily deep cleaning of hospitals and washing of roads across the province.

The ACs were directed to take immediate steps to restore non-functional water filtration plants.