The Punjab Assembly’s Standing Committee on Labour and Human Resource has unanimously approved the Provincial Employees Social Security (Amendment) Bill 2026, marking a key step toward strengthening oversight and worker welfare mechanisms in the province.
The meeting, chaired by Chaudhry Amjad Ali Javed, reviewed multiple agenda items, with Provincial Minister for Labour and Human Resource Khawaja Muhammad Mansha Ullah Butt also in attendance.
Under the proposed amendments, the Labour Department’s audit will be conducted by the Auditor General of Pakistan, while representation from the Planning and Development Board will be included in the governing body of the social security institution. Following the committee report, the bill will be presented before the assembly for approval, after which final assent will be granted by the Governor Punjab.
The committee also held a detailed discussion on deaths among factory workers caused by Silicosis.
Officials from the Labour and Human Resource Department informed the meeting that silicosis is a preventable yet incurable occupational lung disease caused by prolonged exposure to silica dust.
Authorities presented an action plan to address silicosis risks across Punjab, with the committee directing strict enforcement of occupational safety standards.
The committee instructed that workers must be provided with protective equipment and undergo regular medical check-ups. It also emphasized the need for awareness campaigns and improved healthcare facilities for affected individuals.
Additionally, directives were issued to deploy dedicated staff for effective monitoring of factories. The committee warned that industrial units failing to comply with safety regulations would face closure.