Multan: More than 100 employees serving at the historic Qila Kohna Qasim Bagh in Multan have gone without salaries for four months, despite the site now coming under the newly formed Punjab Walled Cities and Heritage Areas Authority.
The affected staff, including security guards, gardeners, sweepers and other workers, said their pay issue remains unresolved even after the authority’s establishment and the new administrative setup. They said they are unable to meet their families’ basic needs and are facing a severe financial crisis.
According to the employees, the situation is not only causing them economic hardship but also affecting the upkeep and cleanliness of the historic and cultural site.
The affected staff have appealed to the Punjab government, the concerned department and the Punjab Walled Cities and Heritage Areas Authority for immediate intervention. They demanded that their four months’ outstanding salaries be paid at the earliest and that regularity in future payments be ensured.
Qila Kohna Qasim Bagh is an important heritage site in Multan that plays a significant role in tourism and cultural preservation. The economic difficulties of the staff posted there, they said, are not only causing individual hardship but could also affect the site’s restoration and protection efforts.
The employees have urged the Punjab government and the authority to take immediate notice of the matter and ensure their rightful dues are paid without further delay.