In a proactive move to mitigate the risk of urban flooding, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa's Minister for Local Government, Arshad Khan, conducted a detailed inspection of ongoing canal cleaning operations in the provincial capital. The visit, which took place on Monday, underscores the provincial government's commitment to pre-monsoon preparedness and urban sanitation.
On-Ground Inspection for Flood Prevention
Minister Arshad Khan personally visited several key locations across Peshawar where extensive cleaning of major canals and drains is currently underway. The primary objective of this large-scale operation is to ensure the free flow of rainwater and sewage during the upcoming monsoon season, thereby preventing the disastrous urban flooding that has plagued the city in previous years.
During his inspection, the minister received comprehensive briefings from officials of the Local Government Department and the Water and Sanitation Services Company (WSSP). He was updated on the progress of the cleaning work, the machinery deployed, and the specific challenges faced in different areas of the city.
Minister's Directives for Timely Completion
Arshad Khan issued strict instructions to the concerned authorities to accelerate the pace of work and ensure all cleaning operations are completed well before the onset of the monsoon rains. He emphasized that any delay or negligence in this critical public welfare activity would not be tolerated.
The minister stressed that the effective cleaning of stormwater drains and canals is not merely a routine municipal task but a vital measure to protect the lives and property of Peshawar's citizens. He highlighted that clogged waterways are a major cause of street flooding, which leads to traffic chaos, property damage, and public health crises.
A Call for Public Responsibility and Cooperation
While directing the authorities to perform their duties diligently, Minister Khan also appealed to the residents of Peshawar to play their part. He urged the public to refrain from the common practice of dumping solid waste and garbage into open drains and canals.
"The government is spending significant resources on this cleaning drive," the minister stated. "However, its long-term success depends on public cooperation. Citizens must act as responsible stakeholders and avoid littering, which directly contributes to blockages." He called for a collective effort to maintain cleanliness for a healthier urban environment.
The inspection tour and the minister's directives signal a focused approach by the KP government to tackle infrastructural weaknesses ahead of the rainy season. The success of these canal cleaning operations is seen as essential for urban flooding prevention and improving the overall civic infrastructure of Peshawar.
