THE Balochistan Public Health Engineering Department has advertised for the transportation of Pat Feeder and Kachhi Canal water for Quetta (Dec4). This is to meet the next 34 years’ water requirement of the Quetta city.

This pipeline would probably be the longest water pipeline in Pakistan and that too passing through the most difficult and rugged terrain. Apart from digging trenches and laying the pipeline in the plains, the rivers, gorges and mountains, its maintenance too would be a nightmare.

The easiest way to lay the pipeline is alongside the existing railway track which crosses many rivers and tunnels through the mountains. This is the shortest route possible. The pipeline(s) can run on either side of the railway track. Apart from easy laying, its monitoring and maintenance will be easier.

Instead of laying the conventional steel pipe, which is prone to rusting and decay, PVC pipes should be considered. The laying of PVC is easier, joining quicker and repairs faster. Some of the old bridges may require strengthening for the additional water loading but it will be a fraction of the cost spent otherwise.

Quality PVC pipes are now produced in Pakistan. PVC is not only rust-free but also remains smooth on the inside despite the age. I have witnessed the six kilometre PVC pipeline laid in 1986 in Faisalabad for the SNGPL colony. It is still in use without any problem.

As an engineer myself, I volunteer my services to the government of Balochistan free of any charges. This is for my Baloch brothers and sisters

S. Nayyar Iqbal Raza

Karachi

Published in Dawn December 7th, 2016