The Punjab government has announced the launch of an artificial intelligence (AI)-driven “Smart Cleaning” initiative across the province ahead of Eid-ul-Adha, aimed at improving waste management, monitoring sanitation staff, and ensuring timely disposal of sacrificial waste.
Chairing a high-level meeting on the “Suthra Punjab” project, Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif outlined a comprehensive strategy integrating AI-based monitoring, digital mapping, and strict enforcement measures. The system will oversee more than 40,000 sanitation vehicles and 176,000 employees through a centralized digital framework.
Under the initiative, AI-equipped motorbikes with automatic cameras will be deployed across Punjab to detect waste in real time, enabling live image capturing and continuous field monitoring. Authorities said these systems will enhance transparency and operational efficiency in both urban and rural areas.
The government has also announced on-the-spot fines for individuals found disposing of waste outside designated collection points. The number of waste collection centers will be increased during Eid-ul-Adha, and special waste collection bags will be distributed across the province.
Officials were informed that over 10,000 locations will undergo deep cleaning, while more than 2,000 additional attendance points will be established for sanitation workers. A mobile application has been introduced for attendance tracking and physical verification, with field monitoring officers assigned to each union council.
The chief minister directed authorities to complete 100 percent physical verification of sanitation staff within a week, warning of strict action against “ghost employees” and absentee workers. Salaries of employees found absent after marking attendance will be deducted, while daily field visits and surprise inspections will be conducted to ensure compliance.
A centralized helpline, 1139, will remain operational round-the-clock to address public complaints, supported by an AI-based complaint management system.
Maryam Nawaz emphasized that the “Suthra Punjab” project is not merely a sanitation drive but a broader social reform initiative. She stressed transparency, accountability, and adherence to key performance indicators, adding that corruption or political interference would not be tolerated.
Highlighting the importance of field presence, she directed officials to prioritize on-ground monitoring over office work, stating that improved performance depends on active supervision. She also called for timely payment of sanitation workers and urged respect for their role, describing them as “heroes” of the system.
The chief minister reiterated her vision of ensuring uniform sanitation standards across Punjab, saying no area—urban or rural—should be deprived of basic cleanliness facilities. She added that the project aims to foster a collective sense of responsibility among citizens, making cleanliness a shared duty between the government and the public.
The government also plans to accelerate its waste-to-value projects under the initiative, aiming to convert waste into usable resources while improving environmental sustainability.
Authorities expect visible improvements in sanitation conditions across the province in the coming days as the AI-powered system becomes fully operational.