Dilapidated sewerage system worsens

Mayor Wahab reprimands KWSC officials over unfinished drain cleaning drive

KARACHI:

The sewerage infrastructure in Karachi is in a state of severe disrepair, causing significant problems for citizens, particularly during the rainy season.

The Karachi Water and Sewerage Corporation (KWSC) has been criticized for failing to address the issue. The accumulation of sewage in various parts of the city has led to widespread complaints, yet no substantial action has been taken.

Per reliable sources, Mayor Murtaza Wahab has expressed his frustration with the local authorities over the dire sanitation conditions. Sources said he has reprimanded KWSC officials and issued a final warning, demanding immediate improvements. Due to negligence and lack of attention from the KWSC officers, the sewerage system has effectively collapsed, leaving many areas flooded with sewage water.

Citizens have repeatedly reported these issues, but their complaints have gone unanswered. The streets and alleys are filled with sewage, causing significant inconvenience and health hazards. Residents have urged Mayor Wahab, who also serves as the chairman of the Water Corporation, to take concrete action against the responsible officers rather than offering mere assurances. In response, a spokesperson for the KWSC stated that Mayor Wahab held an emergency meeting with the corporation's officers to address the worsening situation. During an inspection of the city adfter the rain, Mayor Wahab noted the widespread filth and dirt on the roads. He emphasized that he would take decisive action against any negligence that causes suffering to the citizens.

The Mayor has issued a final warning to the Sewerage Department officials, demanding immediate corrective measures.

Despite warnings from the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) and past experiences of severe flooding, preparations to clear the city's choked storm drains appear far from complete. The Karachi Metropolitan Corporation (KMC), responsible for maintaining the drainage system, had requested Rs 800 million for this crucial task. However, the provincial government has only dished out Rs 410 million mere days before the monsoon onset.

Under the direction of Karachi Mayor Murtaza Wahab, the KMC initiated cleaning operations on May 15 using its own resources.