Govt enforces strict water conservation measures

LAHORE:

In response to directives from the Lahore High Court, the Punjab Environmental Protection Department has announced stringent measures to curb water wastage across the province.

Under the new regulations, washing cars at home using a hosepipe will result in a fine of Rs10,000, while illegal service stations will face immediate action.

A special committee has been formed to oversee the implementation of these measures, comprising Senior Minister Maryam Aurangzeb, Secretary Environment Raja Jahangir, and Director General Environment Imran Hamid Sheikh.

The committee will ensure strict enforcement of the Lahore High Court's orders. According to DG Environment Punjab, all service stations in the province must install water recycling systems by February 28. Non-compliant stations will be fined Rs100,000. Additionally, a complete ban has been imposed on washing vehicles with oil-based products, and the use of groundwater at construction sites has also been prohibited under the Punjab Environmental Act.

Officials emphasised that Punjab has witnessed a 42% decline in rainfall over the past five years, exacerbating water shortages.

These new measures are aimed at conserving the dwindling water resources and preventing further wastage.

The Environmental Protection Department has urged the public to comply with the new regulations, warning that violators will face strict legal consequences.