KARACHI, Aug 18: Adviser to Sindh chief minister on local government Wasim Akhtar was informed here on Wednesday by the KWSB officials that 75 illegal water hydrants are operating in the city.

The adviser, who was given a briefing on various issues by the KWSB officials, asked the board to ensure supply of clean drinking water to people. He also directed the officials to expedite the pace of work on K-III water project whereby the city would get an additional 100 mgd.

Referring to the laying of water supply and sewerage lines, he asked the KWSB officials to undertake such works with mutual consultation of the Nazims so that no road is dug up after it is repaired or carpeted.

At the outset, the adviser asked the KWSB to launch a drive to recover outstanding dues. He asked the officials to recover outstanding water dues on a priority basis and, if necessary, water connections be removed.

Earlier, the KWSB managing director, Brig Iftikhar Haider, informed the adviser that around Rs 3 billion are outstanding against various government organizations under the head of water charges.

Referring to the CDGK's Tameer-i-Karachi Programme, he said that of the total Rs 29 billion, an amount of Rs 13 billion would be spent on water and sewerage schemes. He suggested that the KWSB should have its own police station so that police help could easily be sought while disconnecting illegal water connections.