Lahore: Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has approved a new sewage and drainage system for the major cities of the province.

This initiative marks the first time a comprehensive sewage and water drainage plan is being implemented for all large cities in Punjab. Chief Minister has instructed authorities to create detailed plans for 189 cities with populations exceeding 100,000. The new system will include upgrades to sewage, water drainage, stormwater management, road repairs, and other essential development projects. As part of the plan, the government has decided to establish sewage bypasses and disposal stations in cities for the first time.

Additionally, storage tanks will be built for the immediate drainage of rainwater, with the stored water being repurposed for irrigation and other uses. The plan also includes the strategic installation of sewage and water supply pipelines at appropriate distances to prevent contamination.  Clean water pipelines will be kept separate from sewage lines to maintain water quality. Furthermore, 30 kilometers of roads in each provincial constituency will undergo construction and repair. She emphasised that the Clean Punjab Programme will benefit the province's 150 million residents, addressing the longstanding issues caused by inadequate sewage systems.