Punjab has decided to increase the number of underground water storage tanks across the province after authorities reported positive results from the infrastructure already completed under the Punjab Development Program (PDP).
Punjab Local Government Minister Zeeshan Rafique said 90 of the 110 approved underground water storage tanks have been completed across 51 cities.
The initiative is aimed at improving the province’s ability to manage rainwater and reduce the risk of urban flooding during heavy rainfall.
90 Underground Tanks Completed
During a review meeting, Rafique said authorities have also completed 88 of the 124 drains included in the Punjab Development Program.
According to the minister, the underground storage tanks have helped authorities remove rainwater more quickly from areas where the facilities have been installed.
Based on the performance of the existing tanks, the provincial government has now decided to expand the system during the next phase of the program.
Tanks to Be Connected With Drainage Systems
The government also plans to improve the efficiency of the underground storage system by connecting the tanks with existing drainage networks.
Disposal stations will also be constructed as part of the next phase to improve the management and disposal of stored rainwater.
Rafique directed officials to ensure that underground tanks are emptied after every rainfall so they remain available when the next spell of rain arrives.
He also instructed authorities to consider the latest weather forecasts and alerts when conducting dewatering operations.
Focus on Urban Flooding
Punjab has increasingly focused on improving urban drainage infrastructure as cities face flooding and water accumulation during heavy rainfall.
The underground storage tanks are intended to temporarily hold rainwater and help authorities manage excess water more efficiently.
The minister said the performance of drainage infrastructure would continue to be monitored to identify areas requiring further improvements.
Officials also reviewed the impact of the recent transporters’ strike on the supply of essential goods during the meeting.
The review was attended by Punjab Local Government Secretary Zaid Bin Maqsood, Special Secretary Shahid Zaman Lak, Additional Secretary Mehreen Fahim Abbasi, municipal infrastructure officers and assistant project directors through video link.
With 90 tanks already completed and additional facilities planned, Punjab is now moving toward expanding its underground water storage network as part of efforts to strengthen the province’s response to urban flooding.
Also read: Punjab Launches Pakistan’s First Fully Underground Metro
