Punjab Chief Minister Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif on Tuesday directed WASA authorities to make arrangements for the rapid and efficient disposal of rainwater during monsoon season. According to an official, the chief minister said that special attention should be paid to low-lying areas and warned that stern action would be taken against the officials if people face problem due to accumulation of rainwater.
"Sensitive spots with regard to accumulation of rainwater should be identified beforehand and disposal pumps and generators should be installed there on permanent basis," he added. The chief minister further directed WASA to ensure that all disposal stations and generators for disposal pumps should be in working condition during rainy season and no complaint of defective disposal pump or generator and shortage of workforce should be received from any area.
He said there should not be any filth and garbage on the sides of nullahs and it should be removed with the desilting of nullahs. "Comprehensive planning should be made for the rapid and efficient disposal of rainwater during rainy season.
Senior officers of WASA should remain in the field and personally monitor the arrangements. WASA officers and staff should remain fully alert during monsoon season and ensure optimal utilisation of available resources for the benefit of the people," he added. He warned that strict action would be taken against the authorities concerned if cities were inundated or filth was found floating in the rainwater during monsoon season.