April 24, 2008	Thursday	Rabi-us-Sani 17, 1429

KARACHI, April 23: The government is planning to develop new reservoirs to conserve rainwater that usually finds its way into the sea.

This was stated by Sindh Minister for Local Government Agha Siraj Durrani at a press briefing at the Karachi Water and Sewerage Board (KWSB) head office here on Wednesday. He said he had constituted a committee to chalk out a plan for the new water reservoir in the city.

He said that the officials concerned had been asked to formulate a strategy to bring an end to water shortage in Karachi within 90 days. He warned of strict action against those showing negligence in this regard.

The minister also called for a detailed report about the KWSB performance with reference to water conservation, pipeline leakages, effluent treatment, etc.

He held out the assurance that no contract employees would be laid off by the KWSB, he said.

In reply to a question, the minister opposed construction of Kalabagh dam, and said small dams should be built to overcome water shortage.—PPI