THATTA, Nov 3: Despite a lapse of five months since the Keenjhar Lake tragedy that claimed 26 lives, authorities concerned have failed to take any of the promised measures for averting such incidents in future, it was gathered by this correspondent on Sunday.

Soon after the May 30 tragedy, Sindh minister for culture and tourism Shabir Ahmed Qaimi announced at a press conference that a watch tower and a dispensary would be built and rescue boats, life jackets, divers and an ambulance would be provided at the lake.

He further announced the formulation of a six-member committee, headed by the Muttahida Qaumi Movement MPA, Heer Soho, for preparing a comprehensive report to be followed by implementation of its recommendations.

It may be noted here that despite claims of some preventive measures having been implemented at the site, seven more casualties were reported during the last five months.

When contacted, MPA Soho said that three meetings of the committee had been held so far and 48 boat operators warned not to carry more than eight passengers at a time.

Furthermore, the operators had been bound to be at least 18 years of age and experts in diving besides being certified by the union council concerned, he said and added that they had also been bound to provide life jackets to picnickers while sailing.

Mr Soho said that a dispensary would start functioning in one of the Sindh Tourism and Culture Department huts soon and an ambulance stationed at the lake every Sunday in case of emergencies.

As the Eid is near, and as usual, large crowds are expected to visit the lake, it has become mandatory to adopt the preventive measures to attract visitors and avert further tragedies.