WAH CANTT/TAXILA - The densely populated cantonment area of Taxila reeks due to collapsed sewerage system, disposal of garbage in open spaces and cantonment board authorities' inability to provide up-to-the-mark sanitary services to the residents.
It has been observed that failure of the cantonment board authorities to improve sanitary conditions in localities under its jurisdictions can result in outbreak of some epidemic in the area. Despite making tall claims, the concerned authorities have failed to launch a cleanliness drive for removal of heaps of garbage and other waste material, which could result in outbreak of diseases. The non-military area of Zafar Ali Khan Road, Haideri Town and Bilal Colony could be rated as the worst as far as sanitary conditions are concerned as these localities are stinking with garbage heaps and overflowing sewers.
The inefficient management of civic affairs is leading to further deterioration of sanitary conditions in these localities. Even after a brief spell of rain, the choked drains spew out filth onto roads and streets. Overflowing gutters have become a breeding ground for mosquitoes and other germs exposing the residents to the risk of diseases.
The residents of these localities complained that sanitary workers do not visit their areas to collect solid waste. As a result, garbage heaps along roads and streets continue to rise.
Amir Idress, a shopkeeper of Zafar Ali Khan Road while talking to this reporter said that shopkeepers of the area have brought the matter of collapsed sewerage system in the notice of cantonment board authorities but authorities paid no heed to their cries. Mohammad Faisal, another shopkeeper, said that due to collapsed sewerage system in the area not only shopkeepers but masses also suffer which cause health problems.
Shoukat Ali, a resident of the area while talking to this reporter has said that it was very difficult to walk on roads and in streets due to stinking smell emanating from garbage heaps. He added that they had lodged a number of complaints with the civic body, but their efforts went unnoticed. Despite repeated attempts, cantonment executive officer was not available for comments. However, the sanitation officer has said that sanitation staff visits the area once a week to carry out cleanliness of the area. Responding a question about the collapsed sewerage system, he said that on the complaints of the residents, the authorities have issued warning letter to the occupants of the buildings to observe sanitation rules.