05 October 2004	Tuesday	19 Shaban 1425

ISLAMABAD, Oct 4: Minister of State for Water and Power Amir Muqam has directed the Federal Flood Commission to devise a long- term plan aimed at avoiding flood situation in future.

Underlining the importance of Federal Flood Commission, he emphasized the need to equip it with modern technology to cope with floods in a proper way. Mr Muqam made these observations while presiding over a meeting held here on Monday to review the performance and activities of the commission.

The minister stressed upon the officials to work hard and achieve the targets regarding provision of relief to the people. He also directed the commission to expedite its efforts for completion of the ongoing schemes.

Mr Muqam said the commission should evolve a system to coordinate with provinces in order to tackle flood situations. On the occasion, Federal Flood Commission Chairman I. B. Shaikh gave a detailed presentation to the minister on working of the organization.

He said the role of Civil Engineering Advisory Cell was to evolve national water policy and strategy, examine the feasibility reports of water sector projects and monitor schemes regarding water resources, irrigation and drainage.

Mr Shaikh also apprised the minister of the present status of three different studies on water escapages below Kotri Barrage to check sea water intrusion, water escapages downstream Kotri Barrage to address environmental concerns, and environmental concerns of all the provinces. He said the cost involved in these studies was Rs55 million, Rs51.34 million and Rs91.69 million, respectively.