Water Scarcity: Rainwater Harvesting Initiative Launched in Punjab

News Desk

Islamabad: In a pioneering move to tackle water scarcity and capitalise on monsoon rains, WASA Lahore’s Managing Director, Ghufran Ahmad, unveiled an innovative rainwater harvesting initiative.

This marks a significant step towards sustainable water management in the region.

In an exclusive interview with PTV News, Ahmad outlined the project’s focus on community engagement, warning that strict penalties would be enforced for those who fail to comply with water-saving regulations.

Punjab is now poised to embrace a water-conscious future with active citizen participation, he noted.

With this initiative, WASA Lahore aims to mitigate urban flooding, replenish groundwater levels, and secure a sustainable water supply. Ahmad also mentioned that the Chief Minister of Punjab has directed the province to manage monsoon-related risks proactively.

So far, no major emergencies have been reported, highlighting the effectiveness of the preparation and response strategies.

As part of the efforts, de-silting of drains and sewage lines is a top priority, with under-bridges and roadside drains undergoing thorough cleaning. Ahmad stressed the need for special safety precautions at development sites during the monsoon to protect public safety and prevent accidents.

Despite Punjab receiving the highest rainfall in the country, no significant property damage or loss of life has been reported, which reflects the success of disaster management measures. Ahmad also appealed to mosques to conserve and recycle wazu (ablution) water as part of ongoing water-saving efforts.

In addition, WASA is comprehensively upgrading its sanitary systems, including the rehabilitation and expansion of sewage infrastructure, installation of new treatment plants, and the integration of modern waste management technologies to enhance sustainability.

Responding to a query, Ahmad made an impassioned plea for community involvement in water conservation. He stressed that collective action is vital to address growing water scarcity, adding that every small effort – from fixing leaky taps to adopting water-efficient practices – contributes to a sustainable future.

Water conservation is a shared responsibility, Ahmad reiterated, urging residents, businesses, and institutions to collaborate in implementing water-saving measures, promoting awareness, and supporting initiatives to protect this precious resource.