Wasa imposes fines to curb water misuse amid growing shortages

Rawalpindi : The Water and Sanitation Agency (Wasa) Rawalpindi has announced the enforcement of strict fines to discourage water misuse across the city. Under the new directive, a fine of Rs10,000 will be imposed on domestic users and Rs20,000 on commercial connections for the first violation. Repeat offenders will face water disconnection.

Water is essential for life and a fundamental human need. However, the world, including Pakistan, is grappling with an acute water crisis driven by climate change, overexploitation of resources, and mismanagement. In Rawalpindi, excessive water extraction has severely depleted groundwater levels, exacerbating the city's water shortage.

To address this critical issue, WASA Rawalpindi has devised a comprehensive water conservation strategy in compliance with the Lahore High Court's directives. Deputy Managing Director (Engineering), Zeeshan Shaukat Gondal, has emphasised strict enforcement of the rules. He stated that violators using water pipes for activities such as washing cars or cleaning driveways will face immediate fines, with harsher penalties for repeat offenses.