Residents in several areas have accused sanitation workers associated with the Punjab government’s Suthra Punjab initiative of collecting monthly sanitation charges in cash without issuing official bills or receipts. The allegations have prompted calls for an investigation into the collection process and accountability for those involved.
According to residents, sanitation workers demanded Rs200 as a monthly sanitation fee. However, when people requested an official bill or receipt, they were allegedly told that no documentation would be provided and were asked to pay the amount directly in cash.
The complaints have been reported by residents of Basti Umarpuri, Adda Chakrala, Chak 97/WB and nearby localities. They claimed the practice has continued despite the absence of any official payment record or transparent billing mechanism.
One resident, Mian Abdul Aziz, alleged that a sanitation worker became aggressive after he refused to pay without proper documentation. He claimed the worker threatened and pushed him before snatching his mobile phone when he attempted to record the incident.
Residents also alleged that no official garbage bins or waste collection drums had been installed in their areas despite the collection of monthly sanitation charges. They questioned why payments were being collected when basic sanitation facilities had not been provided.
The affected residents appealed to Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, the deputy commissioner and other relevant authorities to order a transparent inquiry into the allegations. They also demanded legal action against anyone found responsible for unauthorized cash collection.
Responding to the allegations, Suthra Punjab Programme District In-Charge Rao Khalil said sanitation workers are not authorized to collect cash from residents without issuing an official bill or receipt. He clarified that all sanitation charges must be collected through the department’s approved billing system.
Rao Khalil added that direct cash collection without proper documentation is strictly prohibited under departmental rules. He assured residents that strict disciplinary action would be taken against any worker found violating official procedures after an investigation.
Also read: Punjab Govt Introduces Garbage Tax Under ‘Suthra Punjab’ Campaign
