The Rawalpindi Development Authority (RDA) has said it is intensifying its efforts to address various issues related to Water and Sanitation Agency (WASA) defaulters and illegal housing schemes in the city.
The latest development includes a crackdown on defaulters, with a firm stance on bill payments and recovery of property taxes.
In a high-level meeting, RDA Director General Kinza Murtaza announced that FIRs would be filed against WASA defaulters, eliminating the option of paying bills in instalments. Customers are now required to submit the entire bill amount, and an SMS system will be introduced for bill notifications.
Additionally, the RDA will seek police assistance for recovering dues from defaulters and ensure that property transfers are subject to WASA's NOC.
Moreover, the RDA plans to conduct surveys of tube wells in both sanctioned and illegal housing schemes within a week.
Monthly water charges from the private housing scheme for tube wells will be collected as well. A Business Facilitation Centre has been established to streamline processes, including obtaining NOCs from WASA before property sales, which is expected to boost WASA's income and financial stability.
In an introductory meeting with journalists, RDA DG Kinza Murtaza said a zero-tolerance policy would be adopted against illegal housing schemes, with discussions underway to halt utilities like electricity, gas, telephone, and water connections to these schemes. She said the agency’s complaint cell will be activated to address grievances and illegal water hydrants will be eliminated in favour of approved ones adhering to WASA's tariff.
Furthermore, RDA plans to launch a Rain Harvesting Project to conserve water, connect mosques and government offices to rainwater harvesting systems, and introduce water-saving measures like connecting wash basins to toilet systems. Illegal housing projects will face strict action, including the cessation of advertising and the demolition of marketing offices.
Kinza Murtaza emphasised the importance of ensuring water quality, mentioning plans to test water sold by companies in the open market for contamination. Selling harmful water under the guise of mineral water will not be permitted, safeguarding citizens' health.
She said these measures will highlight RDA's commitment to improving water management, addressing illegal housing issues, and promoting sustainable practices for the benefit of Rawalpindi's residents.
Published in The Express Tribune, March 24th, 2024.
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