Mayor orders action against water tanker operators overcharging citizens

Responding to growing public complaints about overcharging by private water tanker operators, Karachi Mayor and Chairman Karachi Water and Sewerage Corporation (KWSC) Barrister Murtaza Wahab took serious notice of the issue on Wednesday and ordered immediate action.

A formal inquiry has been launched to investigate allegations of excessive charges demanded by tanker operators. A high-level committee, headed by Aamir Waqar, has been constituted to conduct a thorough probe. The committee has been directed to submit its findings within ten days.

Mayor Wahab has also instructed the relevant authorities to obtain detailed records and operational data from all tanker operators involved in water distribution. The move aims to ensure transparency and hold accountable those exploiting citizens.

“The concerns of Karachi’s residents are valid and cannot be ignored. Any operator found guilty of overcharging will face strict legal action,” said Mayor Wahab. He further stressed that the city administration would not tolerate any form of exploitation, especially in essential services such as water supply. The inquiry seeks to restore public confidence and promote fair practices in water distribution. The mayor reaffirmed his commitment to transparency, public service, and accountability across all sectors of municipal governance.

The committee will investigate and ascertain the identity of the tanker operators and hydrants involved in the unauthorised rate increase. It will submit detailed information, including tanker registration numbers and the drivers' names involved in the activity.

The person in charge of the KWSC's hydrant monitoring cell will obtain records of any public complaints received through the media or other channels. They will also document the name, address, and contact details of each complainant. The committee will prepare a comprehensive fact-finding report detailing its observations, findings, and evidence. The report will be submitted to the chief operating officer of the KWSC for necessary action. The committee's report will be produced within 10 working days.