The worsening drought and a 42 per cent decrease in rainfall have caused groundwater levels in Rawalpindi to drop to a critical depth of 800 feet.
In response, the Department of Environmental Protection and Climate Change has imposed an immediate ban on the use of tube wells, wells, and boring water for the construction of buildings, houses, and plazas.
Violators will face a fine of Rs10,000, the department said.
Additionally, strict directives have been issued to shut down all illegal and unapproved car wash service stations.
To enforce these measures, the Environmental Protection and Climate Change Department, Rawalpindi Water and Sanitation Agencies (WASA), municipal corporations, and district councils have begun operations against car wash stations. Authorities have issued formal notices to all 3,500 service stations across Rawalpindi city, district council areas, and the entire division, instructing them to voluntarily comply with the new restrictions by February 28.
The crackdown will begin on Monday, with a separate operation targeting water recycling system installations starting March 3.
Immediate action will also be taken to prevent unnecessary water wastage.
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