LAHORE: A major sewer line rupture, measuring 48 inches in diameter, has occurred once again in Johar Town, disrupting water supply and sewage water drainage operations by the Water and Sanitation Agency (Wasa).
This incident comes shortly after Wasa officials repaired a portion of the same line that burst about ten days ago.
The consequences of the rupture have been felt throughout the area, with the main boulevard, stretching from the LDA complex to Shadaywal Chowk, being closed for an extended period due to ongoing repair work.
According to sources, this closure has severely impacted traffic flow in the region, leading to congestion and delays.
The residents of Johar Town are facing hardships, with frequent water supply suspensions and sewage drainage disruptions.
Many individuals have resorted to procuring water from outside sources for basic needs like hand washing and toilet use.
A resident, Amjad, expressed frustration, stating, “For the last many days, we are in great trouble, facing water supply suspensions and sewage drainage issues”.
He added that the traffic congestion on the main boulevard only adds to their woes, and it seems no one is taking permanent measures to resolve this ongoing issue.
Another resident, Aslam, described the situation as a “great headache” for the entire community, noting that the water supply was restored briefly after the last repair but was affected again following the latest rupture.
Wasa authorities have been working to address the problem, with claims of repairing the line twice and laying a new 36-inch diameter sewer line as a bypass for potential future ruptures.
However, a Wasa spokesperson contradicted this statement, acknowledging the disruption in water supply and assuring that teams are on-site working to resolve the issue.
The affected sewer line is 40 years old and has experienced multiple ruptures due to its age and the urgent need for replacement.
To address the issue in the long term, Wasa has submitted a project worth Rs. 1.3bn to the government for the replacement of the sewer line with a new one. However, the approval for the project is still pending.
Source: DAWN
