Editorial:
Torrential rains badly exposed the drainage system in Quetta, the capital of Balochistan province. Heavy rainfall brought joy to the people living in posh areas of the city, whereas, woes to people living in poor neighborhoods and marginalized areas. A heartbreaking video of two teenage boys being swept away in the rainwater in Quetta’s Sariab Road area was widely shared on social media. This really pained every sane person.
Hundreds of heartbreaking images of rain survivors were shared on social media outlets. This simply exposed the system in general and Quetta’s drainage system in particular.
Also Read: Emergency declared in rains/snow affected districts of Balochistan
Rains-related incidents claim 7 lives
Rains-related incidents claimed seven precious human lives as per the statistics shared by the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA). Women and children were also among the dead. PDMA’s media managers were sharing videos of their operations when people were facing the brunt of heavy rainfall in various parts of Balochistan.
Most streets and roads in poor neighborhoods of Quetta were inundated by the rainwater. It was not possible for the people to walk or drive on roads completely inundated.
Billions of rupees were spent but with no impact
Billions of rupees have been spent on the drainage, construction of roads, bridges, beautification and master plan of the city. However, one hour’s heavy rainfall exposed all claims on behalf of the concerned departments.
Thousands of people have settled in the middle of nullahs/waterways over the years without the permission of the Metropolitan Corporation. MCQ appears to be a silent spectator when it comes to people constructing their houses on waterways.
PDMA has rather become a ghee and sugar distribution agency rather than coping with natural disasters in Balochistan.
Rainfall also exposed the traffic system
Rainfall has also exposed the traffic plan of the city. Nevertheless, the traffic policemen and Seargent deserve to be appreciated for ensuring the flow of traffic as streets and roads were giving an image of river flooding.
Chief Minister Balochistan Mir Quddus Bizenjo must have mercy on the provincial capital, which houses around 3 million people. Beyond political and personal interests, the provincial government should improve the drainage system, stop illegal settlements on waterways, ensure transparency in funds allocated for the construction of roads, bridges and etc.
Rainy water needs to be reserved to maintain the depleting water table in Quetta and other parts of Balochistan.
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