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Maryam Nawaz Acts on Bhati Chowk Tragedy: Arrests, Compensation Ordered
Punjab CM Maryam Nawaz calls the Bhati Chowk manhole deaths a criminal lapse at every level, holding multiple officials accountable and ordering arrests & Rs 1 crore compensation for the victims’ family.
ND
by News Desk
2026-01-29
Maryam Nawaz Acts on Bhati Chowk Tragedy: Arrests, Compensation Ordered

Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has condemned the tragic deaths of a woman and a child who fell into an open manhole at Bhati Chowk in Lahore, stating that the incident reflects criminal negligence at multiple levels.

In a high-level meeting, Maryam Nawaz expressed anger at the Commissioner Lahore, Deputy Commissioner, Assistant Commissioner, WASA, LDA, Traffic Police, and the Punjab Police, declaring them equally responsible for the accident. She emphasized that “a criminal act has been committed at every level” and criticized the failure of ten departments to respond appropriately.

The Chief Minister highlighted lapses such as the absence of lighting at the site, the unsafe closure of the manhole with Pinaflex, and unauthorized parking at the construction area. She questioned why no department knew about the illegal parking and alleged corruption in managing the site.

Maryam Nawaz ordered the arrest and dismissal of the TEPA project director, safety incharge, and relevant WASA officials, warning that they should never be employed in public service again. She also directed the contractor to pay Rs 1 crore in compensation to the affected family.

The CM criticized attempts to misrepresent the incident, noting that the victims’ family was wrongly treated by authorities. She clarified that Uzma Bukhari was not involved and that the officials had been receiving the same information as she did.

“Punjab has ten institutions in every place, but no one takes responsibility. Every life is precious, and accountability must be ensured,” Maryam Nawaz said, underlining her commitment to reform and strict action against negligence in public institutions.

The Bhati Chowk tragedy has brought attention to infrastructure safety in Lahore and the urgent need for stricter oversight of urban development projects.
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