WASA gets Rs60m for silt cleaning

The Punjab government has released Rs60 million to the Water and Sanitation Agency (WASA) for the silt cleaning of 15 small and large rain drains spread throughout the city before the onset of the monsoon season. The agency had requested Rs70m for the purpose.

Additionally, the WASA has demanded Rs80 million for the cleaning of the eight-kilometre stretch of Nullah Leh in urban areas. A summary has been sent to the Punjab Cabinet for consideration in the next meeting.

Credible sources told The Express Tribune that there are indications that funds amounting to Rs60m will be released to facilitate the silt cleaning of Nullah Leh. However, the Rawalpindi Cantonment Board and Chaklalahla Cantonment Board will release the funds for silt cleaning within 10km of the Nullah Lai in the cantonment areas. Furthermore, the Cantonment Boards have formally requested a grant of Rs50m from the federal government.

Sources in WASA confirmed to have received Rs60m after Rs10m was cut for the silt cleaning of storm drains. The allocation of funds for the proper cleaning of Nullah Leh is anticipated to take place during the first week of May. The silt cleaning contract awarding process will be finalised between May 15 and 20, with the official commencement of the silt cleaning campaign scheduled for the final week of May.

The authorities have decided to conduct a complete silt cleaning this season. The contract for the project will be granted to two or three major companies, with each company being assigned specific areas for silt cleaning. The agency will be in charge of monitoring the cleaning operations and the decision has been made to employ heavy machinery for silt cleaning.

All obstructed hilly areas will be levelled and made smooth to ensure the proper flow of rainwater into the Nalla Leh during the monsoon season. In the high-risk areas of Gawalmandi Bridge, Dhok Rata Bridge, Pirwadhai Bridge and Khayaban Sir Syed Bridge, the drainage systems will be enhanced to prevent water from spilling into settlements. Cleaning will be done before the onset of pre-monsoon rain and silt cleaning will be continuing throughout the rainy season from June 15 to August 31.

Published in The Express Tribune, April 30^th, 2024.