CM Prioritizes Safety SOPs at Construction Sites: Minister

By Farzana Chaudhry | Lahore, Pakistan
LAHORE: Punjab Minister for Communications and Works Malik Sohaib Ahmed Bharth has said that the provincial government is giving top priority to the implementation of safety standard operating procedures (SOPs) at construction sites across the province, in line with the vision of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif.
The remarks came during a two-hour high-level meeting chaired by the minister to review safety measures in the construction of public buildings. Senior officials, including Special Secretary, Additional Secretary, Chief Engineers, and other officers attended the session, while Superintending Engineers (SEs) and Executive Engineers (XENs) from across Punjab joined online.
During the meeting, officials briefed the minister on safety protocols being implemented in ongoing Building Wing projects. The minister directed all field formations to ensure strict compliance with safety and protective SOPs at construction sites.
He emphasized that construction areas must be properly secured and covered, with clear signboards installed to warn the public. He also instructed that workers be provided with complete safety kits, while first aid facilities and proper lighting arrangements must be ensured at all sites.
The minister further ordered that entry of unauthorized individuals to under-construction sites be strictly prohibited. He directed all officers to submit formal compliance certificates confirming adherence to safety SOPs.
Reiterating the government’s stance, Malik Sohaib Ahmed Bharth warned that no negligence will be tolerated and strict action will be taken against officials failing to implement safety measures.
He also announced that special training sessions on safety protocols will soon be organized for officers to further strengthen compliance and awareness.