In compliance with an order from the Lahore High Court, the Punjab Environmental Department has announced stringent measures and heavy penalties to curb the unnecessary use of water.
As part of the initiative, a fine of Rs10,000 has been imposed on the washing of vehicles at homes and the use of pipes for non-essential purposes. Additionally, immediate action has been ordered against illegal service stations.
A special committee, consisting of Senior Minister Maryam Aurangzeb, Secretary of Environment Raja Jahangir, and Director General of Environmental Protection, Imran Hamed Sheikh, has been formed to ensure the implementation of the Lahore High Court’s directives.
According to DG Imran Hamed Sheikh, all service stations across Punjab have been instructed to install water recycling systems by February 28. Service stations failing to comply with this directive will face a fine of Rs100,000.
New regulations also prohibit the washing of vehicles with oil-based substances and the use of groundwater at construction sites. These measures have been enforced under the Punjab Environmental Act with immediate effect.
The Environmental Department highlighted that over the past five years, Punjab has experienced a 42% decrease in rainfall, leading to a severe water shortage. These steps are aimed at addressing the growing concerns surrounding water conservation.
The department has urged citizens to comply with these regulations and avoid the unnecessary use of water. Strict legal actions will be taken against those found violating these directives.
