RAWALPINDI: Following predictions of heavy rainfall from Monday evening, the Water and Sanitation Agency (Wasa) has declared a rain emergency and begun making arrangements in the city in this regard.

According to Wasa spokesperson Umer Farooq, the meteorological department has predicted heavy rainfall for the next three to four days, and following the prediction Wasa managing director Raja Shaukat Mahmood cancelled the holidays of all sewerage and drainage staff.

The spokesperson said all employees and machinery have been put on alert due to rainfall expected from Monday evening to Friday. “Rain emergency units are being established in Moti Mahal, Liaquat Bagh, Bagh Sardaran, Commercial Market and Khayaban-i-Sir Syed to monitor the situation.”

He said heavy machinery, including suction/jetting machines, dewatering pumps, sewer cleaners and water bouzers are deployed at the rain emergency units. Citizens have been advised to seek help during the rainfall by lodging complaints with their nearest Wasa complaint centres or over the phone.

The spokesperson said a meeting was held at the Wasa offices, during which the managing director reviewed the agency’s arrangements and directed the employees of the sewerage directorate to remain alert to cope with an emergency.

Published in Dawn January 23rd, 2017