In a first, waste to be picked even on Sundays in Phagwara

In a landmark move aimed at strengthening urban sanitation and improving public health, the Municipal Corporation, Phagwara, has for the first time launched a city-wide initiative to collect waste from secondary garbage collection points on Sundays. The unprecedented step eliminates the long-standing weekly gap in waste removal services, which had led to unsightly and hazardous waste pile-ups over weekends.

The initiative was officially rolled out today with a cleanliness drive held at the Government School Secondary Point and Hoshiarpur Road Secondary Point. The launch event was led by Mayor Ram Pal Uppal and Municipal Commissioner Dr Akshita Gupta. They were accompanied by the Health Branch team under Sanitary Inspector Sewak Ram and Supervisor Jograj. Sanitation workers were fully mobilised and ensured immediate removal of the accumulated waste, which was sent for scientific disposal in accordance with municipal waste management protocols.

Speaking at the event, Mayor Uppal emphasised the significance of the initiative, noting that Sunday pickups were previously excluded from routine sanitation schedules, causing major inconvenience to residents and undermining efforts to maintain city cleanliness. “This is a big step forward for Phagwara,” he said. “Until now, waste from secondary points was not picked up on Sundays, leading to overflow and public discomfort. Beginning today, that changes. Our team will now work every Sunday to ensure uninterrupted sanitation across the city.”

MC chief Dr Akshita Gupta highlighted the broader vision behind the move, describing it as a sustained operational shift rather than a symbolic gesture. “The initiative reflects our commitment to a cleaner, healthier Phagwara. From now on, secondary garbage dumpsites will be cleared every Sunday without exception. This addresses a critical service gap and reinforces our mission of maintaining hygiene across all urban zones,” she said.