Gilgit: In a significant milestone, the mountain town of Gilgit is embarking on its inaugural sewerage and sanitation endeavor, marking a noteworthy stride toward environmental preservation and enhanced public health, according to national dailies. Serving nearly half a million inhabitants, the initiative is slated for completion by the conclusion of 2025.
The initial phase of the sewerage and sanitation project will encompass the region stretching from Baseen to Bab-e-Gilgit (encompassing package I & II) and from Tablighi Markaz to Nagar Colony Konodas (encompassing package III). The endeavor has elicited a sense of anticipation and optimism within the local populace, who recognize its potential to elevate their standard of living.
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“This undertaking will address our sanitation needs for the foreseeable future,” asserts Project Director Shafqat Ali, underscoring its pivotal role in enhancing the well-being of the town’s residents. “Furthermore, it will not only mitigate environmental concerns but also ensure access to potable water, a cornerstone of public health.” Ali reassures the community that the infrastructure has been meticulously designed to accommodate the town’s burgeoning requirements.
The comprehensive collection system comprises a 209-kilometer-long network of sewer pipelines, with diameters ranging from 8 inches to 40 inches. This pipeline network comprises tertiary sewers leading to main trunk sewers. According to the project director, the initial eight-inch pipeline represents just the outset, with subsequent expansions tailored to accommodate escalating sewage volumes from residential properties.
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All sanitary sewage within the project area will be conveyed through the sewer pipe network to a Mechanical Sewage Treatment Plant boasting a capacity of 4 million gallons per day (MGPD), facilitating its treatment for subsequent reuse.