WASA seeks Rs950m for water project

Devises plan to dig five tube wells, water treatment plant

RAWALPINDI:

The Water and Sanitation Agency (WASA) has designed a scheme to address the persistent water scarcity in three newly densely populated union councils and adjacent areas and sought Rs950 million from the government. 

To implement this ambitious plan, WASA has requested a funding allocation in the upcoming annual development programme.

This water supply scheme will be established in Gorakhpur, on land owned by WASA, to provide drinking water to the densely populated Union Councils 80, 81, and 82. Additionally, the scheme aims to supply water to the newly developed large Christian settlements along the Soan River, including Sharon Colony, Sturridge Colony, Mumtaz Colony, and Yusuf Colony.

With the requested funds, the Gorakhpur Water Treatment Plant will be constructed, along with five new tube wells. Water pipelines will also be laid in these areas to ensure a consistent supply of drinking water.

A formal request has been made to develop this new water supply scheme, emphasising the need to allocate the necessary funds in the upcoming financial year's budget or to include it in the annual district development programme.

According to WASA officials, the water crisis in these communities is severe and longstanding. Despite the winter season, there is no access to water, forcing residents to depend on the expensive services of the water tanker mafia. This exploitation has been a significant burden on the residents, who are often compelled to travel long distances to fetch water.

The situation is so dire that people resort to filling up coolers in cars and motorcycles to transport water back to their homes.

“This new scheme by WASA aims to alleviate the chronic water shortage and provide a reliable water supply to the affected areas, significantly improving the quality of life for the residents,” they said.

The implementation of this project will not only address the immediate water needs but also ensure sustainable water management in the future.

Published in The Express Tribune, June 7^th, 2024.