The Punjab Environment Department has officially banned washing cars and using water pipes at home, enforcing a fine of Rs10,000 for violators.

The move comes as part of the Lahore High Court’s directive to curb excessive water wastage amid declining rainfall in the province.

According to a notification issued by the department, all illegal service stations have been ordered to shut down immediately. Moreover, service stations operating without a water recycling system will face a hefty fine of Rs100,000. To comply with the new regulations, service stations across Punjab must install water recycling systems by February 28, 2025.

The notification also prohibits the use of oil for washing vehicles and the use of groundwater at construction sites.

Officials revealed that Punjab has received 42% less rainfall over the past five years, making water conservation a critical priority. The restrictions, implemented under the Punjab Environmental Act, are effective immediately.

LHC verdict

Lahore High Court Justice Shahid Karim praised the Punjab government for its initiatives in water conservation, efficient water use, drought prevention, pollution control, and overall environmental improvement across the province.

In a written verdict, the Lahore High Court highlighted the Punjab government’s significant environmental measures and acknowledged its progress over the past eleven months. Justice Shahid Karim ordered that all monitoring responsibilities be entrusted to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

The court emphasized that individuals who wash cars at home and waste water will be fined Rs10,000. It further noted that the EPA has taken several concrete steps to prevent water wastage and promote efficient water use.

The ruling also mandates that petrol pumps without a water recycling system will face a fine of Rs100,000. The EPA has been directed to inspect petrol pumps and oversee the installation of recycling plants, imposing fines on those who fail to comply with warnings.

Additionally, the Lahore High Court acknowledged that legislation has been enacted to ensure water conservation and efficient usage. An authority, led by the Chief Minister of Punjab, is being established to oversee these efforts.

Local governments have been instructed to enforce the installation of treatment plants, ensuring that new residential and commercial developments incorporate such systems at the time of construction.

The court also reviewed various environmental improvement measures in the transport sector, further reinforcing the province’s commitment to sustainability.