Encroachments on drainage channels identified as major cause of urban flooding in Dera

DERA ISMAIL KHAN, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 8th Apr, 2026) Assistant Commissioner Dera Syed Muhammad Arsalan along with officials of the Water and Sanitation Services Company (WSSC), visited Union Council-1 to conduct a detailed inspection of two major drainage channels in order to resolve urban flooding-related issues.

According to the administration, the inspection revealed that these key drains—essential for the disposal of rainwater across the area—have been severely affected by illegal encroachments established by local residents.

It was noted that the accumulation of soil, garbage, and debris in the drains has disrupted water flow, while encroachments have also restricted access for sanitation staff.

As a result, during rainfall, water overflows into residential areas, causing urban flooding.

The district administration has announced that revenue and Tehsil Municipal Administration (TMA) staff will jointly carry out demarcation (marking) of the drains, giving occupants an opportunity to voluntarily remove encroachments.

Officials warned that in case of non-compliance, legal action will be taken to remove the encroachments.

They said that establishing encroachments on drainage channels was a punishable offense under the law.

The district administration has appealed to people to act in the broader civic interest, voluntarily remove encroachments, and cooperate in efforts to protect the city from potential flooding.

APP/slm