The Lahore High Court (LHC) has directed the Water and Sanitation Agency (WASA) to expedite the installation of water meters across the city in a bid to curb excessive water consumption and protect groundwater reserves.
Justice Shahid Karim issued the directive while presiding over a hearing on multiple petitions related to environmental degradation, smog control, and water conservation.
During the proceedings, the judge expressed serious concern over water wastage and underlined the need for immediate and effective countermeasures.
"The installation of water meters is no longer optional — it is essential to stop this unchecked wastage," Justice Karim remarked, adding that public accountability must be ensured in both residential and commercial water usage.
In a strong rebuke of the Environmental Protection Force, which was created to safeguard the environment, Justice Karim noted its failure to deliver results.
"If stubble is still being set on fire along the motorway, then what purpose does this force serve?" he questioned, calling for its deployment in environmental "hotspots" where violations are rampant.
Various government departments submitted their progress reports to the court during the session.
Justice Karim also endorsed the Judicial Water and Environment Commission's recommendation that prayer leaders from mosques should be enlisted in water conservation campaigns to help raise awareness among the public.
In a significant urban development ruling, Justice Karim barred the Lahore Development Authority (LDA) from approving construction of residential units larger than one kanal unless a water treatment plant is part of the plan.
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