Storm drains’ desilting resumes in Pindi

First phase of cleaning expected to be completed by June 30

RAWALPINDI:

The Water and Sanitation Agency (WASA) has announced the resumption of silt cleaning of Nullah Leh and 15 major and minor storm drains in the garrison city.

According to officials, two companies have been awarded the cleaning contract for 18 kilometres of Nullah Leh, while ten companies received the contract for cleaning the 15 rainwater drains.

Although the cleaning work commenced a few days before Eidul Azha, it was halted for four days due to the holiday. However, all cleaning staff and engineers have been recalled on an emergency basis to restart the operation.

The estimated cost for cleaning the drains is Rs80 million, while the estimated cost for the 15 small and large rain drains is Rs60 million, bringing the total estimated cost to Rs140 million.

Deputy Commissioner Hassan Waqar Cheema has invoked Section 144 to impose a three-month ban on disposing of building materials, garbage, and waste in storm drains.

Furthermore, orders have been issued to immediately demolish all slums along the drain banks and remove all types of encroachments through prompt operation.

In response to the onset of pre-monsoon rains, the silt cleaning work has been authorised to operate 24 hours a day.

The first phase of cleaning is expected to be completed by June 30. A range of light and heavy machinery has been deployed to ensure thorough silt cleaning.

WASA MD Saleem Ashraf has assured the waste, mud, and building materials extracted during the cleanup will not be disposed of into the drains or nearby areas. Instead, large vehicles will immediately transport the waste to the designated dumping ground, preventing its re-entry into the drains.

This year, the cleanup operation will continue throughout the entire monsoon season. Following each rainfall, areas with excess water or obstructions will be thoroughly cleaned and deepened as soon as the rain stops.

The Nullah Leh and all drain bends will be straightened to facilitate water flow. Where necessary, the drains will be deepened by five to seven feet to prevent water overflow.

The MD further stated that with the help of the police, a crackdown will be conducted against those who throw building materials, garbage, and litter in Nullah Leh. To ensure effective monitoring, drainage and storm drains will be observed 24/7.

Strict action will be taken against anyone found dumping building materials or garbage, with cases registered against offenders.

In the low-lying areas of Nullah Leh, including Javed Colony, Nadeem Colony, Fazalabad, Arya Mohalla, Dhok Hassu, Fauji Colony, and Gawalmandi, the Nullah will be deepened to prevent flooding.