Flood warnings: Rescue, WASA officials to remain alert on Eid

RAWALPINDI:

Officials and workers of Rescue 1122, the District Health Department and Water and Sanitation Agency in Rawalpindi will continue working as usual during the Eid holidays, which have been cancelled by the Punjab government.

The decision has been taken in anticipation of heavy rainfall and flood warnings.

The Wasa Assistant Director (Information), Muhammad Umer Farooq, told The Express Tribune that during Eid, sewerage lines were especially susceptible to getting chocked as people often disposed of animal remains improperly.

A press release issued by WASA said relevant equipment had been made available at four flood centres.

Six rapid response teams have also been put on alert.

Meanwhile, EDO Health, Dr Nasir Mehmood said that the total number of dengue patients had risen to 450.

“Given the situation, all the health department officials will remain on the field throughout Eid,” he said.

Similarly, around 7,000 emergency medical technicians; fire rescuers, rescue and safety officers and district emergency officers will remain on duty all over the province during Eid.

Meanwhile, leaves of more than 2,000 sanitary workers and other officials of the CDA were cancelled on the eve of Eid, a press release said.

Published in The Express Tribune, September 24^th, 2015.