Dera ismail khan: The district administration reclaimed government land worth approximately Rs 25.2 million after removing illegal encroachments built over drains here at Sheikh Yousaf Chowk and Chashma Road during an anti-encroachment operation.
The operation was launched on the directives of Deputy Commissioner Hikmatullah Khan and supervised by Assistant Commissioner Dr Muhammad Hamid Siddiq as part of an ongoing district-wide campaign against encroachments on drains, waterways and public land.
During the operation, officials demolished illegally constructed platforms, stalls, ramps and other structures erected over drains that had been obstructing the flow of rainwater and disrupting the city’s drainage system.
The district administration said around 12 marlas of state land, valued at approximately Rs25.2 million, was recovered during the operation. The relevant departments were also directed to clean the drains and ensure the uninterrupted flow of water to reduce the risk of urban flooding during the monsoon season.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr Siddiq said encroachments on drains and waterways not only caused inconvenience to residents but also increased the risk of waterlogging and urban flooding during heavy rains. He said maintaining an efficient drainage system remained one of the district administration’s top priorities.
He warned that no encroachment on government land, drains or public passageways would be tolerated, adding that indiscriminate action against violators would be continued.
The administration also urged upon the residents and traders to voluntarily remove illegal encroachments and cooperate with the authorities in keeping the city clean, safe, organised and free of encroachments.