GUJRANWALA: Punjab Local Government Minister Zeeshan Rafique visited Wazirabad to review cleanliness arrangements and the timely disposal of sacrificial animal waste on the occasion of Eidul Azha. Commissioner Muhammad Ali and Deputy Commissioner Gujranwala Naveed Ahmed were also present.
The minister was briefed on special arrangements under the Suthra Punjab programme and directed officials to ensure that cleanliness operations during Eid are effective, timely, and meet public expectations so citizens do not face any inconvenience. Later, the minister and commissioner visited cattle markets to review security, cleanliness, parking, water, lighting, and other facilities.
The minister instructed the administration to provide the best possible facilities to traders and citizens and maintain discipline during the sale and purchase of sacrificial animals. An awareness rally was also held in front of the DC office Gujranwala under the Suthra Punjab programme, led by Minister Zeeshan Rafique and Commissioner Muhammad Ali. During the rally, waste bags were distributed among citizens for safe disposal of sacrificial remains. The minister urged citizens to cooperate with the administration to keep the city clean during Eid.
CRACKDOWN ON OVERCHARGING AT BUS STANDS: The district administration is taking strict action to protect citizens from overcharging at bus and wagon stands during Eid. Deputy Commissioner Naveed Ahmed conducted a surprise visit to the General Bus Stand Gujranwala late at night.
He inspected counters, waiting areas, and buses of various transport companies and also met passengers to inquire about fares and travel facilities. Citizens expressed satisfaction over measures taken to prevent overcharging, noting a clear reduction in excessive fares. The DC also reviewed the complaints cell and directed that passenger complaints be registered and resolved promptly.
He inspected cleanliness, lighting, drinking water, washrooms, and security arrangements, instructing officials to maintain a proper environment during Eid days. He warned transporters against charging fares above the official rates, stating that violators would face strict legal action, including heavy fines, challans, and suspension of route permits.
RESCUE 1122 CONDUCTS EXERCISE: Rescue 1122 conducted a mock exercise at the Upper Chenab Canal to prepare for possible flood emergencies.
The exercise focused on evacuating stranded people, testing rescue equipment, and improving inter-department coordination. Rescue teams demonstrated boat operations, evacuation procedures, first aid, and shifting of injured persons to hospitals. Various departments including Revenue, Health, Education, Civil Defence, Livestock, Agriculture, Red Crescent, Irrigation, Wasa and others participated. District Emergency Officer Mian Rafat Zia said the drill was conducted in line with Punjab Government and PDMA instructions to strengthen preparedness for the 2026 flood season.
