Faisalabad:
The latest flash floods have caused massive destruction of irrigation infrastructure in the Faisalabad zone, causing losses to a value of RS650 million.
The irrigation department has forwarded a summary to the Punjab government, which sought immediate release of funds for restoration, confirmed sources.
Apart from damaging houses, livestock and livelihood over hundreds of villages in Tandlianwala (Faisalabad) and Bhowana (Chiniot), the floods also rinsed critical channel structures.
The damaged sections were quickly repaired by registered contractors on the directives of the department’s senior officials.
A performer of the Faisalabad Irrigation Zone said that flood recovery works already performed included the repair of the damaged upstream right guide base on Qadirabad barrier at a price of RS70 million, restoration of the infringement section for the same barrier to a value cost RS80 Million and construction of Pusha to cover the Hyraulic. Quality line worth RS110 million.
In addition, the restoration of the launched apron and pitching at Qadirabad barrier was completed at a price of RS50 million, while the RS60 million was spent protecting and strengthening the damaged choking bomb on the downstream left side of the barrier.
Meanwhile, the chief engineer’s office, Faisalabad Irrigation Zone, has estimated that additional restoration and flood prevention works worth RS3.17 billion is required before the next monsoon season.
Field studies conducted by the department have identified urgent needs across departments, including Khanki, Qadirabad, Burala, Jhang and Khairwala.
The proposed works include rehabilitation of infringement sites, strengthening eroded banks, construction of protective pushas and bottoms, repair of spores and studs, restoration of main drains and bed spacing of inlet along the ravi and chenab rivers. According to sources, these measures, if approved, will significantly improve flooding preparedness and minimize risks of life, property and irrigation infrastructure in the region.
