Wednesday, May 12, 2010

President Zardari seeks rehabilitative measures for Hunza lake affectees

ISLAMABAD: President Asif Ali Zardari on Tuesday sought a report from Governor Gilgit Baltistan Dr Shama Khalid on the relief and rehabilitation measures for the landslide affectees of the Hunza Valley and the steps taken for draining the lake.

President Zardari who had been in touch with the local authorities and directed immediate relief and rehabilitation measures on January 4 and March 8, enquired about the progress made so far and emergency measures in case the artificial dam bursts. The president asked the Gilgit Baltistan administration to provide an immediate update and progress on the latest situation as the water in the lake continues to rise and poses a threat to the people downstream. He said the authorities must be prepared in advance to meet any eventuality and ensure that there was no loss of life.

Separately, Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Ashfaq Pervez Kayani on Tuesday visited the site of the landslide, which has blocked the Hunza River near Attabad.

According to an Inter Services Public Relations (ISPR) press release, the COAS was briefed about the progress of work on spillways, which is being conducted by the Frontier Works Organisation (FWO). General Kayani appreciated the efforts of the FWO officials for restoring the water flow of the Hunza River. He also interacted with the residents of the area and assured them of the army’s full support.

Earlier, on his arrival, General Kayani was received by Engineer-in-Chief Lieutenant General Shahid Niaz and Rawalpindi Corps Commander Lieutenant General Tahir Mehmood. app

Courtesy www.dailytimes.com.pk

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