LAHORE: The Parks and Horticulture Authority (PHA) of Lahore has cleared illegal encroachments along the Sattukatla drain to restore the green belt, Director General Muhammad Tahir Wattoo confirmed on Thursday.
The day-long operation, which continued late into Thursday night, resulted in the removal of several temporary residential and commercial setups along the drain, which also passes through the upscale neighborhood of Model Town.
During the drive, PHA staff cleared a 1.5-km stretch from Peco Road to Al-Karim Chowk, following several warnings to encroachers to vacate the premises, which they did not heed.
Following the clearance, the PHA started horticultural work along the drain, planting a variety of seasonal flowers to enhance the area’s aesthetic appeal. According to Mr Wattoo, the department also plans to plant native trees along the drain, contributing to the increase of Lahore’s green cover.
Following the cleanup campaign, the department will launch a public awareness initiative to sensitise the community on the importance of cleanliness.
Meanwhile, Mr. Wattoo has instructed directors to implement a comprehensive strategy for removing encroachments citywide and to establish an effective monitoring system in each zone.
