Punjab Bans Car Washing, Imposes Rs10,000 Fine

News Desk

Lahore: The Punjab Environment Department has officially enforced a ban on washing cars and using water pipes at home, imposing a fine of Rs10,000 on violators.

The decision aligns with the Lahore High Court’s (LHC) directive to curb excessive water wastage amid declining rainfall in the province.

According to a notification issued by the department, all illegal service stations must shut down immediately. Additionally, service stations operating without a water recycling system will face a hefty fine of Rs100,000.

To comply with the new regulations, all service stations across Punjab are required to install water recycling systems by February 28, 2025.

The notification also prohibits the use of oil for washing vehicles and the extraction of groundwater for construction purposes.

Officials revealed that Punjab has received 42 percent less rainfall over the past five years, making water conservation an urgent priority. The restrictions, implemented under the Punjab Environmental Act, take effect immediately.

Lahore High Court’s Verdict

Justice Shahid Karim of the Lahore High Court commended the Punjab government for its proactive steps in water conservation, efficient water management, drought prevention, pollution control, and overall environmental improvements.

In a written verdict, the LHC highlighted the Punjab government’s substantial progress in environmental conservation over the past eleven months. Justice Shahid Karim entrusted the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) with monitoring responsibilities to ensure strict implementation of these measures.

The court reaffirmed that individuals wasting water by washing cars at home will be fined Rs10,000, while petrol pumps without a water recycling system will face a fine of Rs100,000. The EPA has been instructed to inspect petrol pumps and oversee the installation of recycling plants, imposing fines on those failing to comply with the new regulations.

The ruling also noted that legislation has been enacted to ensure water conservation and efficient usage. A new authority, led by the Chief Minister of Punjab, is being established to oversee these efforts.

Additionally, local governments have been directed to enforce the installation of treatment plants, ensuring that new residential and commercial developments incorporate such systems during construction.

The court also reviewed various environmental improvement initiatives in the transport sector, reinforcing Punjab’s commitment to sustainability and responsible resource management.