A meeting chaired by Interior Minister Gohar Ejaz in Islamabad today reviewed the existing system of water supply, sanitation and waste disposal of the federal capital and Rawalpindi. It was informed that there are 8,000 sanitation workers who dispose of 2,300 tons of waste daily with an annual budget of 7 billion rupees, but still the sanitation of both cities cannot be described as standard. Currently, the twin cities are facing forty seven percent water scarcity. In his remarks on the occasion, the Interior Minister noted that water supply and sanitation are basic needs, expressing the strong desire to make Islamabad a model for other cities. He said decisions will have to be taken today to meet tomorrow's needs. Gohar Ejaz said an integrated, comprehensive and effective system will have to be devised so that quality facilities can be provided to the people. He said the implementation of all necessary actions should be ensured as soon as possible. Minister for Information and Broadcasting Murtaza Sol angi, who also attended the meeting, said improvement of ground water level is very important in water supply and therefore attention has to be given to it. Additionally, he said the natural drains of Islamabad will have to be cleaned. Source: Radio Pakistan