150 illegal hydrants razed, 177 arrested

Ongoing crackdown on water theft revives 100MGD of water supply

KARACHI:

Pakistan Rangers Sindh, in collaboration with Karachi Water and Sewerage Corporation (KWSC), executed an extensive crackdown on water theft in various parts of the city, reviving the water supply.

At a joint press conference, held at the Rangers headquarters, Pakistan Rangers Sindh Sector Commander Brigadier Kabir Ahmed and KWSC Managing Director highlighted the success of the operation.

The initiative, which officially commenced on September 17, 2023, targeted the water mafia's activities, dismantling approximately 150 illegal hydrants and disconnecting 1,200 illegal connections. These unauthorised operations were siphoning off an estimated 100 million gallons of water per day, causing significant financial losses for KWSC and inflating prices for consumers.

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During the operations, 177 individuals were apprehended, and 152 FIRs were filed against them, marking a significant dent in the illicit water network.

The clandestine practice of tapping into the KWSC mainlines and diverting water to underground tanks for commercial gain was also uncovered.

Furthermore, the licences of 17 companies engaged in water theft were revoked, and legal actions were taken against those responsible, besides suspending an XEN and initiating an inquiry.

Published in The Express Tribune, January 6^th, 2024.