Sindh departments coordinate for smooth conduct of 35th National Games

KARACHI: The closing ceremony of the 35th National Games was held in Karachi on Saturday, with Pakistan Army taking home the highest number of medals.

Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) and Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Field Marshal Asim Munir was the chief guest at the ceremony, which was also attended by PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari.

The successful hosting of the event in Karachi from December 6 to 13, 2025, was the result of close coordination among multiple government departments under the leadership of the Sindh government. Athletes from all provinces and departments participated in the mega event, which required meticulous planning and seamless execution across sectors.

Among the key contributors was the Sindh Solid Waste Management Board (SSWMB), which played a critical role in ensuring cleanliness, sanitation, and an overall orderly environment throughout the Games. Maintaining hygiene and presenting a neat, organized outlook was a major operational component of the event, and SSWMB was tasked with fulfilling this responsibility.

SSWMB was tasked with sweeping and cleaning all enclosures, including the main building and seating areas designated for the chief guest and other dignitaries. This also included the washing and cleaning of chairs, continuous litter picking during events, and comprehensive waste management within the stadium and its surroundings.

To facilitate smooth movement and maintain cleanliness across access routes, mechanical sweeping and washing operations were carried out on all major roads leading to and around the venue. Special sanitation arrangements were made inside the stadium and in surrounding areas to manage the increased footfall during the Games.

Prior to the event, Managing Director SSWMB, Tariq Ali Nizamani, chaired an important coordination meeting to ensure timely and effective cleanliness arrangements. Following his directives, the concerned sanitation company operating in District East undertook all assigned responsibilities.

A dedicated team of 40 sanitary workers was deployed within the stadium, while an additional workforce of around 200 sanitary workers was engaged on Friday, December 12. Supervisors and field staff remained present until the closing ceremony, ensuring uninterrupted sanitation services.

Under the guidance of the Managing Director, mechanical sweeping and washing operations were carried out, dustbins were strategically placed at required locations, and special arrangements were made for the prompt collection and disposal of waste generated during the closing ceremony. These measures ensured that guests, athletes, and spectators experienced a clean and comfortable environment and were able to enjoy the event without inconvenience.

SSWMB’s planning and on-ground execution contributed to the overall conduct of the 35th National Games, reflecting inter-departmental coordination and operational readiness.