NOC withdrawal puts water project at risk

The Capital Development Authority (CDA) has withdrawn the No Objection Certificate (NOC) issued for 15 under-construction tube wells being installed by the Water and Sanitation Agency (WASA) along Islamabad Expressway. WASA has opposed the decision, maintaining that all legal requirements were fulfilled and fees paid before obtaining approval.

According to sources, the tube wells are being installed along the service road from Faizabad to Koral Chowk.

CDA directed WASA to halt construction work, stating that the tube wells could lower underground water levels in nearby residential areas and create water shortages for local residents.

WASA Managing Director Azizullah Khan said the Rs1 billion water supply scheme is being funded by the Punjab government.

He stated that all legal formalities were completed with CDA before work commenced, including payment of fees and obtaining the NOC. The sites were selected in consultation with CDA and after receiving its clearance.

He said boring work on nine of the 15 tube wells has been completed, while six remain. Electricity connections for the completed tube wells are still under process.

The WASA chief maintained that CDA cannot withdraw the NOC because it was issued after completion of all legal procedures. He added that the Punjab government approved Rs1 billion in funding for the tube wells, water tanks and supply network on the basis of the CDA clearance.

Azizullah Khan also rejected concerns that the tube wells would create water shortages in the surrounding areas.

He said WASA would approach the relevant forums to complete the project and ensure water supply to residents of the areas linked to the scheme.