20000103

7,000 army men engaged in Multan desilting plan

RECORDER REPORT

MULTAN: Army troops engaged in desiltation of canals would not get any external security allowance from the government.

In all 7,000 army men are taking part in desiltation programme in Multan and D G Khan divisions with 78 buildozers, 1,137 tractors, and four transporters, said Brig Mohammad Asghar, Commander Corps Engineers, Multan, while briefing the journalists here on Saturday.

He said that integrated employment resources programme was being launched with the collaboration of irrigation, highways, administration and Nation Building departments for activation of 5,530 miles long water channels in Multan and D G Khan divisions.

Brig Asghar said that army teams were engaged in the inspection of water outlets, channels, to remove all unauthorised outlets (Mogas) and combat water theft.

He said that the Canal and Drainage Act 1970 was being revised to make it stringent to award exemplary punishment to water thieves. The Punjab Government has allocated Rs 81 million for desiltation of canals and water channels. Rupees 23 million provided to Multan, D G Khan divisions to desilt at least 52 percent channels.