Wasa declares drought emergency amid water shortage crisis in Rawalpindi

Rawalpindi : Water and Sanitation Agency (Wasa) Rawalpindi is committed to providing essential water and sewerage facilities in line with the Punjab government's vision. However, a severe drought, a rapidly growing population, increased commercial activities, and limited resources have posed significant challenges. In response, a drought emergency has been declared across Rawalpindi, announced Managing Director Wasa, Muhammad Saleem Ashraf, during the city's ongoing water conservation campaign.

He highlighted that the lack of rainfall over the past three months has led to a sharp decline in both dam water levels and underground reserves, making it difficult to balance water supply and demand. The city requires 68 million gallons of water daily, but only 51 million gallons are available from existing sources. To address this shortfall, a public awareness campaign has been launched, urging citizens to use water responsibly.

As part of these efforts, strict measures are being enforced to prevent water wastage, including fines and disconnection of illegal or wasteful connections. Simultaneously, sewerage system maintenance is being prioritized, as the improper disposal of grease and waste into drainage lines has led to frequent blockages, resulting in foul odours and serious health hazards. Public cooperation is crucial in this regard, with households and businesses urged to use sewer lines strictly for wastewater drainage, avoid dumping garbage, dispose of used cooking oil and grease in sealed containers instead of pouring them down drains, and install sieves in sinks and washbasins to prevent food particles from clogging the sewer system. MD Wasa has also conducted inspections across the city, reviewing actions taken against violators of water conservation policies. Citizens are strongly advised to adhere to Wasa's guidelines, as non-compliance may result in warnings, fines, and disconnections. Given the ongoing drought, responsible water usage is more critical than ever to ensure sustainable supply for all.