In line with a Lahore High Court directive, the Punjab Environmental Department has introduced strict measures to prevent excessive water consumption, imposing hefty penalties for violations.
Under the new policy, washing cars at home and using water pipes for non-essential activities will result in a fine of Rs10,000. Additionally, authorities have been directed to take immediate action against unauthorized service stations operating without proper regulations.
To ensure effective enforcement, a special committee has been established, comprising Senior Minister Maryam Aurangzeb, Environment Secretary Raja Jahangir, and Director General of Environmental Protection Imran Hamed Sheikh.
According to DG Imran Hamed Sheikh, all service stations in Punjab must install water recycling systems by February 28. Non-compliance with this rule will lead to a penalty of Rs100,000.
The new regulations also ban the washing of vehicles with oil-based products and restrict the use of groundwater at construction sites. These measures, implemented under the Punjab Environmental Act, take immediate effect.
The Environmental Department emphasized that Punjab has witnessed a 42% decline in rainfall over the past five years, exacerbating the region’s water crisis. The newly introduced policies aim to promote water conservation and sustainable usage.
Citizens have been urged to adhere to these regulations, as authorities will take strict legal action against any violations.
