Punjab makes WASA safety SOPs mandatory

Muhammad Muzamil Awan : Lahore: On the directions of the Punjab Chief Minister, Housing Secretary Noorul Amin Mengal has issued key orders to ensure the safety of WASA field staff during manhole cleaning and desilting operations. The Directorate General WASA Punjab has also issued a formal guideline, making safety kits, protective suits, helmets, face masks, gas detectors, warning boards, safety cones, and tape mandatory at operation sites. Manual handling of suction machines has been banned, while every operation will be supervised by the concerned SDO or supervisor. Rescue 1122 must be informed immediately in case of any emergency. These SOPs matter ahead of monsoon because safer desilting can reduce urban flooding risks, protect workers, improve drainage performance, and secure roads, properties, and commercial areas. Can strict implementation improve Punjab’s civic safety standards?