Open Sewage Hazards in Chishtian: Missing Manhole Covers Create Public Health Emergency

CHISHTIAN: A serious sanitation crisis is unfolding in Chishtian city where manhole covers in central locations have been missing for months. The exposed sewage systems are not only a safety hazard but also a major public health threat, particularly for children who play in the area.

Residents report that despite lodging multiple complaints with the sanitation and municipal departments, the administration has failed to act. Citizens accuse the authorities of criminal negligence, warning that the city is waiting for a tragic incident to occur.

This situation directly violates the strict sanitation safety directives issued by Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, who had ordered immediate securing of all manholes across the province. However, the Chishtian administration is reportedly refusing to comply with the Chief Minister’s orders.

Adding to the crisis, local residents allege that corrupt elements have taken over the Chishtian municipal sanitation system. They claim bogus bills are being prepared for work that was never done. Citizens have demanded that the Chief Minister Punjab order an immediate secret audit of the Chishtian municipal sanitation department and take strict action against corrupt officials.

Urgent appeals have also been sent to the Chief Secretary Punjab and the Commissioner Bahawalpur Division to intervene before a major sanitation-related tragedy occurs.