Punjab Chief Minister (CM) Maryam Nawaz has launched an Artificial Intelligence-based sanitation monitoring system. The digital initiative, part of the ‘Suthra Punjab’ program, brings 176,000 workers and 40,000 vehicles under provincial oversight.
The system utilizes motorbikes equipped with automated cameras to identify waste in real time. The units capture live images and relay field conditions directly to a central monitoring cell.
During the launch ceremony, the CM stated that the project is intended to document every process and align operations with specific Key Performance Indicators (KPIs).
She noted that cleanliness standards in villages must match those in cities, citing Singapore and Japan as international benchmarks for round-the-clock maintenance.
Addressing government officials, Nawaz claimed she has ended political interference in administrative affairs. “I have eliminated political interference in administrative affairs, ensuring that such decisions are made on merit. I consider political interference a sin,” she said.
The CM spoke about the pressure lawmakers, including MNAs, MPAs, and ministers, exert regarding transfers and postings.
She stated that she has never instructed anyone to hire or dismiss individuals based on influence. “Our political elite tries to ‘adjust’ its men. If someone tries to secure a position through a parachute entry, they are unlikely to perform as they rely more on backing than on merit or accountability,” she added.
Nawaz told bureaucrats that she is in her position to absorb pressure rather than take sides. She advised officers who cannot handle professional pressure to seek other careers.
The CM also addressed her personal schedule, stating she sleeps four to six hours a night to manage her responsibilities.
Regarding project integrity, Nawaz warned that the government will not tolerate corruption or the presence of ghost employees. She expressed disapproval of Suthra Punjab employees who threw garbage during recent protests over unpaid wages.
While acknowledging the right to protest, she labeled such conduct intolerable.
