Deputy Commissioner (DC) Dera Ismail Khan Hikmatullah Khan visited several areas and major roads in Tehsil Dera on November 15 to review the city's sanitation situation. During the visit, Hikmatullah Khan inspected ongoing cleanliness and drainage improvement operations conducted by the Water and Sanitation Services Company (WSSC-DIKhan).
The deputy commissioner inspected desilting and cleaning work on the main drain near Kalma Chowk to review progress aimed at improving the drainage system and ensuring a healthy environment for residents. He also visited the main drain stretching from Islamia School to Tank Adda to examine desilting operations.
WSSC Chief Executive Officer Syed Muhammad Arslan accompanied the deputy commissioner to review field arrangements. WSSC Manager Operations Javed Khan briefed Hikmatullah Khan on the progress of the operation, explaining the stages of desilting and measures taken to remove silt, waste, and obstructions to ensure wastewater flows smoothly.
Hikmatullah Khan directed officials to maintain the pace of cleaning and desilting to improve infrastructure and provide relief to citizens. He stressed the need for regular monitoring to prevent waste accumulation. During the visit, Hikmatullah Khan interacted with sanitation workers, appreciated their dedication, and distributed cash rewards for their performance. He stated that the sanitation workforce played a vital role in maintaining cleanliness and improving the civic environment, adding that their services deserved appreciation and encouragement.
WSSC-DIKhan has intensified a citywide drive, including desilting the main drain from Islamia School to Tank Adda and removing garbage from Dyal Road. Special cleaning is being conducted at the Judicial Complex, and teams are removing solid waste from vacant plots. Additionally, WSSC launched a large-scale operation along Darya Band using excavators and dumpers to remove garbage and unwanted vegetation. The company is also watering plants along central medians as part of green initiatives.
Syed Muhammad Arslan stated the company was undertaking coordinated sanitation, drainage cleaning, and solid waste management operations across the city. He said the company was committed to maintaining cleanliness through sustained efforts rather than limiting activities to occasional drives. Arslan appreciated the dedication of the field teams and acknowledged the encouragement from the deputy commissioner, noting such appreciation would motivate the workforce.
Syed Muhammad Arslan appealed to citizens to cooperate by disposing of household waste only at designated collection points and avoiding dumping in open spaces, roadside areas, and drainage channels. He emphasized that maintaining a clean city was a shared responsibility between the municipal services provider and the public.
