The Punjab Environment Department has officially banned car washing and the use of water pipes at home, enforcing a fine of Rs10,000 for anyone found violating the new rule. This measure is part of the Lahore High Court’s directive to reduce water wastage in response to declining rainfall across the province.
A notification issued by the department also mandates the immediate closure of all illegal service stations. Service stations operating without a water recycling system will face a hefty fine of Rs100,000, with a deadline of February 28, 2025, to comply by installing recycling systems. Additionally, the use of oil for washing vehicles and the use of groundwater at construction sites have been prohibited.
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Officials have pointed out that Punjab has experienced 42% less rainfall over the past five years, making water conservation a top priority. The restrictions, implemented under the Punjab Environmental Act, are aimed at addressing this critical issue and are effective immediately.
Lahore High Court Praises Water Conservation Efforts
Lahore High Court Justice Shahid Karim commended the Punjab government for its proactive measures in water conservation, drought prevention, and pollution control. In a written verdict, Justice Karim praised the environmental progress made over the past eleven months and entrusted monitoring responsibilities to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
The court emphasized that individuals who wash cars at home will face fines of Rs10,000, and petrol stations without water recycling systems will be fined Rs100,000. The EPA has been directed to oversee the installation of recycling systems and inspect service stations for compliance.
The High Court further acknowledged new legislation aimed at ensuring water conservation and efficient usage. An authority led by the Chief Minister of Punjab is being established to manage these efforts. Local governments have also been instructed to enforce the installation of treatment plants in new residential and commercial developments to promote sustainable practices.
