KARACHI:
Flooding and stagnant water on streets across the country have cast a shadow over the monsoon season. Torrential downpours have overwhelmed the sewerage systems causing sewage water to spill out of manholes and accumulate in the streets. This stagnant water presents a myriad of challenges for the locals hindering their movement and access to essential services. The contamination of the domestic water supply has further compounded the problem as the dirty water infiltrates the pipelines.
The repercussions of this stagnant water are dire as it serves as a breeding ground for diseases that threaten public health. Consuming water tainted with impurities can lead to various illnesses such as hepatitis. The stagnant pools become a breeding site for disease-carrying mosquitoes. Water remains accumulated for months, leaving residents trapped in an undesirable environment. Despite the residents’ persistent pleas and applications to the government and municipal authorities, their concerns have fallen on deaf ears. The underlying cause of this predicament lies in the haphazard expansion of cities without proper planning. The absence of a well-defined urban development framework has led to the hasty construction of houses and the neglect of street infrastructure. Resultantly, cities are plagued by an array of issues, with stagnant water being just one of the many consequences.
To mitigate this problem, the government must take decisive action. A comprehensive and permanent solution must be devised. Meticulous evaluation of urban expansion is crucial to prevent the recurrence of such problems. Careful planning and adherence to building regulations will ensure that houses and streets are constructed in a manner that minimises the risk of water stagnation. By implementing robust measures, both in terms of water management and urban planning, the authorities can alleviate the suffering of the people and create a healthier, more sustainable environment for all.
Samran Khalid
Bahawalnagar
Published in The Express Tribune, July 12th, 2023.
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