SUKKUR: A Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) official Tuesday informed the Sindh High Court Sukkur Bench that floodwater was stilled stagnant in 99 percent of flood-hit areas.
The Sindh High Court Sukkur bench was hearing a petition on rehabilitation of flood victims and drainage of floodwater from affected area in Sukkur, Khairpur, Ghotki and Naushehro Feroz districts.
During the hearing, the bench observed that the rehabilitation department was not seen during and after rains and flood. “Where were you earlier,” the court questioned the rehabilitation in-charge. “Our 26 ambulances have been engaged in relief work in all flood affected areas,” he replied.
“Where your ambulances are working today, tell the court,” the bench further questioned. “All ambulances are working in different areas,” he said and submitted report in the court.
“Assistant Commissioners and Mukhtiarkar should determine the whereabouts of 26 ambulances in flood-hit areas and submit a report,” the court ordered.
The court regretted that it seemed the flood-affected people of Sindh were equal to the people of Somalia and Ethiopia and asked about drainage of floodwater from affected areas. “Water still standing in most of the affected areas,” the petitioner replied.
A committee constituted by the court submitted its detailed review report of the affected areas. “The district administrations became active but facing fuel shortage,” a lawyer told the court.
The Deputy Director Sindh PDMA told the court that only one percent work has been performed, while 99 percent was lying due to floodwater still standing in the affected areas.
SHC moved against likely renewal of KE license
A petition has been filed in the Sindh High Court (SHC) against the likely renewal of the trade license of K-Electric for power distribution in Karachi.
It is important to mention here that the National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA) has fixed hearing for the power utility’s seven-year investment plan on March 1st, according to the petition.
“During the hearing an agreement will be made for extension in the K-Electric’s trade licence and renewal of its power distribution agreement.” “Existing agreement with the KE will expire on July 20, 2023,” according to the plea.
“K-Electric has failed to fulfill its commitments in the previous agreement and failed to enhance the power generation, committed excessive billing and also failed to overcome chronic load shedding.” “The power company has not been entitled for a renewed agreement when it has failed in its previous commitment,” petitioner said.
Petition filed by a citizen Haleem Khan Ghori and others, sought the court to direct the federal government for initiating open bidding for power distribution in Karachi. Petitioner has also sought a restraining order for NEPRA proceedings over the matter until decision in the case.
