Sindh empowers Waste officers to curb illegal dumping

KARACHI: The Government of Sindh has granted enforcement powers to officers of the Sindh Solid Waste Management Board (SSWMB) to further strengthen the sanitation system and initiate legal action against individuals involved in illegal dumping and littering. A formal notification in this regard has been issued by the Local Government Department, Sindh.

According to details, with the approval of the competent authority, Assistant Directors of SSWMB have been authorized to take action under Sections 132, 133, and 136 of the Sindh Local Government Act, 2013 (amended). The powers allow officers to proceed against offences listed in Part-I of Schedule VI of the Act.

Under these newly granted authorities, Assistant Directors will now be able to take immediate action against individuals who dump waste on roads, streets, drains, or other public places, or create obstacles in maintaining sanitation services.

The initiative aims to improve the overall cleanliness system, control environmental pollution, and promote a sense of civic responsibility among citizens.

Residents have also been urged to cooperate with authorities and report violations by calling the SSWMB helpline 1128.

Managing Director SSWMB, Tariq Ali Nizamani, directed that the orders will come into immediate effect following the issuance of the notification. He appealed to citizens to ensure proper waste disposal at designated locations, warning that violations may result in legal action.