Preventive measure: Rs780m approved to protect localities along Budhni nullah

Fences, sidewalls would be built in places that had illegal settlements

PESHAWAR:

The irrigation department has approved Rs780 million to construct walls around Budhni nullah to fend off the risk of flooding in the area during monsoon season.

An official privy to the development told The Express Tribune the funds will be spent on protecting localities along the banks of the nullah from floods.



Last month, the nullah overflowed its banks following heavy rain and flash floods, leaving locals stranded. As a result, Chief Minister Pervez Khattak approved funds to construct walls.

“The amount will be utilised to build permanent structures on both sides of the nullah,” said the official.

Beacon of hope

About the construction amount, he said Rs500 million were approved last year and the money was spent on constructing temporary embankments.

However, even the makeshift arrangement has proved futile as most of these embankments were swept away.

“As a result, water was able to enter residential areas and cause massive destruction,” the official said. “Now that the funds have been approved, the nullah will be further excavated and permanent structures or high walls will be constructed on both sides.”

Furthermore, fences, and sidewalls will be built around the nullah in places where illegal settlements were removed by the provincial government during encroachment drives.

“The construction is likely to start from Palosai area, on the outskirts of the city,” the official said. “Work is expected to start after the monsoon season ends and will be completed by next year.”

Executive engineer city canal Asad Zaman Khan could not be reached for comments despite repeated attempts to contact him.

Published in The Express Tribune, August 12^th, 2015.