On the eve of World Cleanup Day on Saturday, awareness activities were arranged by Lahore Waste Management Company (LWMC), International Solid Waste Association (ISWA), Ozpak, educational institutions and non-governmental organisations in the provincial metropolis. LWMC marked World Cleanup Day by conducting massive cleanliness awareness drives at Mall Road which were joined by the district administration, Agahi Foundation, Hashoo Group, Waste Busters and students. The awareness activities comprised of awareness walks, setting up of awareness camps, public briefings, leaflets and waste bags distribution and waste picking on Mall Road. LWMC chairman and Deputy Commissioner Lahore Captain (r) Anwarul Haq led the awareness drive followed by renowned architect Nayyar Ali Dada, assistant commissioners, LWMC Managing Director Farrukh Butt, LWMC Operations General Manager Sohail Malik and others. On the occasion, LWMC chairman briefed that such awareness activities are important in raising awareness among the public and the role of citizens in keeping Lahore clean is also very important. “They should realise that without their active participation, keeping Lahore clean is not possible,” he said. Nayyar Ali Dada appreciated LWMC for their cleanliness services in the city. He stated that LWMC was not merely responsible for cleanliness but it was also the social and civic responsibility of every one to keep their city clean. LWMC MD Farrukh Butt said that LWMC marks all such international and national days with dedication which is followed by a comprehensive awareness raising programme which runs throughout the year to sensitise public on the importance of cleanliness. Talking on the occasion, LWMC Operations GM Sohail Malik said that LWMC was determined and working around the clock to provide best cleanliness services to the citizens, but at the same time “we are requesting them not to litter the city and keep Lahore clean, the way they keep their homes clean”. Separately, ISWA, Ozpak and Waste Busters jointly carried out an awareness walk in Islampura. Ozpak Deputy Manager Muhammad Usman said that it is the responsibility of each and everyone to contribute for this nation and make Earth clean. He said we cannot make this country waste free without the society’s participation. He also emphasised to reduce littering and dispose waste properly which will be helpful to prevent the country from being a victim of environmental pollution. Published in Daily Times, September 16th 2018.