KARACHI, July 1: City Nazim Syed Mustafa Kamal has said that encroachments on storm-water drains caused flooding of Liaquatabad Underpass during rains.

During a visit to Orangi and Gujjar nullahs on Sunday, the nazim said water entered into densely populated areas, as the storm-water drains had been narrowed down with the presence of encroachments which created hurdles in de-silting task.

He said it was essential to remove the encroachments for cleaning the drains.

The nazim also inspected relief camps established in different parts of the city for the people living at the bank of Gujjar nullah, Lyari river and Orangi nullah.

He said the city government had established nine camps where medicines had been provided besides deputation of staff to help them. In addition to eight camps established in Gadap Town, he said three camps had been set up in the town to provide relief to the affected residents. During a visit to Sohrab Goth and adjoining areas, he reviewed the situation of Lyari river.

Mr Kamal also inspected the overflowing Tipu Sultan nullah which resulted in accumulation of water on Sharea Faisal near Baloch Colony flyover. He directed the officials concerned to clean the drain after removal of encroachments.

Later, he visited Falaknaz Apartments on Sharea Faisal where the city government staff had already started work to drain out water.

The nazim also visited various areas of Surjani Town and directed the water board and city district government officials to be prepared for any emergency situation.

The water board was asked to take immediate steps for draining out water from Sabzimandi.

He instructed the officials concerned for supply of chlorine tablets free of cost to the residents of Gadap, Keamari, Bin Qasim towns and all other areas where complaints of contaminated water were being received.—PPI