In accordance with an order from Lahore High Court, Punjab Environmental Department has announced strict measures and heavy sanctions to limit the unnecessary use of water.
As part of the initiative, a fine of RS10,000 has been introduced on washing vehicles in the home and the use of pipes for non-essential purposes. In addition, immediate action has been ordered against illegal service stations.
A special committee consisting of Senior Minister Maryam Aurangzeb, environmental secretary Raja Jahangir, and Director General of Environmental Protection, Imran Hamed Sheikh, has been formed to ensure the implementation of Lahore High Court’s directives.
According to DG Imran Hamed Sheikh, all service stations across Punjab have been instructed to install water recovery systems by February 28. Service stations that do not comply with this Directive will have a fine of RS100,000.
New rules also prohibit washing of vehicles with oil -based fabrics and the use of groundwater on construction sites. These measures have been enforced according to Punjab Environmental Act with immediate effect.
The environmental department emphasized that over the past five years Punjab has experienced a fall of 42% in rainfall, which led to a serious water shortage. These steps aim to tackle the growing concerns about water protection.
The department has called on citizens to comply with these rules and avoid unnecessary use of water. Strict litigation will be taken against those found that violate these directives.
