WASA concerned over ‘monsoon unpreparedness’

Inspection reveals inadequate desilting, high sewage levels

JARANWALA:

In anticipation of the upcoming monsoon season set to commence on June 15, the Water and Sanitation Agency (Wasa) has expressed dissatisfaction with the performance of its drainage directorate.

Ahead of the looming monsoon season, strict action has been warned against lower staff for any slackness or inefficiency.

In a warning letter directed to the director of drainage by the deputy managing director (services), grave concerns were raised regarding the state of preparations for the approaching monsoon.

During surprise inspections to assess readiness for the monsoon, it was noted with great concern that sewage water levels in the channels were significantly high, with many almost reaching the surfaces beneath pulleys and passageways. This indicated a lack of proper desilting.

During an inspection of channel 4 near Bara Qabristan, Ghulam Muhammad Abad and the University of Agriculture, it was distressing to observe that the channel was nearly clogged with cow dung, debris, and dense vegetation along the edges, indicating neglect in desilting this specific stretch.

The letter further highlighted instances of inadequate supervision, such as an excavator and a single tractor-trolley being deployed for desilting a section from Bara Qabristan to Firdous Colony, with no supervisory staff present.

Additionally, overflow was observed in channel 3 near Liaqat Town, adjacent to a private school, yet remained unattended.

The letter noted that while the Shahbaz Town bridge was under construction, exposing a portion of channel 3, the sewage water levels remained alarmingly high, indicating a lack of desilting or cleaning efforts.

Despite the proper functioning of the Shadab Colony disposal system with all pumps operational and normal wet-well levels, severe overflow occurred in channel 3 near the adjacent graveyard.

This reflected the overall poor and dismal progress in desilting efforts by the drainage directorate, warranting strict action.

It's worth mentioning that in anticipation of heavy rainfall predicted by the Punjab Disaster Management Authority, Wasa has established a monsoon control room at Wasa and DC offices.

Preparations are in full swing to handle any untoward situations, with continuous liaison with meteorological authorities and six other district administration offices regarding rain forecasts.

Published in The Express Tribune, June 6^th, 2024.