Repeat: Tube-well inquiry ordered, again

CDA witnessing consequences of installing under-capacity pumps at Tube-wells.

ISLAMABAD:

It has been five months since the Capital Development Authority (CDA) chairman ordered an inquiry into the installation of low-efficiency pumps at 135 Tube-wells, but like several other inquires, its findings are nowhere to be found.

Unable to carry out proper investigations, the authority is now witnessing the consequences of installing under-capacity pumps at Tube-wells, which, coupled with loadshedding, have reduced the capital’s water supply.

The inquiry was ordered in January 2013 after the issue was reported in The Express Tribune. Former CDA environment member Dr Kazim Niaz was designated the inquiry officer. Sources revealed that the inquiry committee did not conduct a single hearing.

Now, incumbent Environment Member Ahsan Ali Mangi has been asked to head the inquiry team and submit its findings at the earliest.

The pumps were replaced free-of-cost by USAID in December 2012, ironically as part of a project to enhance the performance of the wells.

“The CDA not only accepted the offer, but also agreed to hand over the dismantled pumps to the contractors, which were worth several million rupees at scrap value,” the official added.

“Prior to selecting the pumping set, an energy audit of the tube-wells was required and done by the CDA. However, while executing the project, the officials involved did not do their due diligence,” a senior water management wing official confided.

Published in The Express Tribune, June 16^th, 2013.