Lahore High Court Warns of Drought Risk, Urges ‘Water Emergency’ Amid Growing Crisis

Lahore, Pakistan – The Lahore High Court (LHC) has expressed deep concern over the rapidly declining water levels in the region, warning that the shortage is escalating into drought-like conditions. During a weekly hearing on environmental petitions, Justice Shahid Karim highlighted the gravity of the water crisis and called for immediate action, stressing the urgent need to declare a state of water emergency. The court’s remarks come as the city faces increasing water wastage, exacerbating the already critical situation.

LHC’s Warning on the Drought Risk and Water Crisis

On Friday, Justice Shahid Karim of the Lahore High Court emphasized that the dwindling water reserves in the region could soon lead to a severe drought, with widespread consequences for agriculture, urban water supplies, and the overall economy. In a strong call for government intervention, Justice Karim underscored that urgent measures are needed to address the crisis.

1. Call for Water Emergency Declaration

During the hearing, Justice Karim repeatedly urged the government to declare a state of emergency to confront the ongoing water shortage. His concern was compounded by the increasing signs of drought-like conditions, which he believes will only worsen without immediate intervention.

Key Point: Justice Karim’s warning highlights the potential risks of ignoring the water crisis, with long-term consequences for Pakistan’s agricultural and urban sectors.

2. Crackdown on Water Wastage

The court also expressed dissatisfaction with the rampant water wastage occurring in residential areas, particularly at car washes outside homes. Justice Karim ordered the authorities to take immediate action, imposing fines and cracking down on unnecessary water usage. This measure is part of a broader strategy to conserve precious water resources.

Example: Water wastage in commercial establishments like car washes and laundries has been a significant contributor to the water crisis in urban areas.

Punjab’s Efforts to Tackle the Water Crisis

While the court has taken a proactive stance, the Punjab government has also been working to address the water crisis. During the hearing, a government law officer informed the court that a committee, led by the Chief Secretary of Punjab, had been established to address the water shortage issue.

1. Formation of a Special Committee

The committee’s primary objective is to devise and implement long-term solutions to manage and conserve water resources in the province. This includes reviewing current water management practices and exploring potential reforms.

2. Installation of Water Meters in Commercial Markets

In response to concerns over water wastage, the court instructed that water meters be installed in all commercial markets across the city. The cost of these meters would be passed on to consumers, ensuring that businesses are held accountable for their water usage.

Example: This step aims to promote water conservation among commercial establishments, incentivizing businesses to reduce their water consumption.

Other Key Recommendations and Measures

The Lahore High Court’s intervention goes beyond just addressing water wastage and emergency declarations. Several recommendations and suggestions were made during the hearing to improve environmental practices and ensure long-term solutions for water sustainability.

1. Water Meter Installation and Cost Recovery

A lawyer representing the Water and Sanitation Agency (WASA) informed the court that the provincial government had already submitted a summary for the procurement and installation of 200,000 water meters. These meters will help monitor water consumption more effectively, with the cost being recovered in instalments to reduce the financial burden on consumers.

2. Amendments to Loader Rickshaw Regulations

Justice Karim also raised concerns about environmental issues related to loader rickshaws, suggesting amendments to existing regulations. He proposed appointing students as environmental volunteers to help address local environmental challenges, including water conservation efforts.

3. School Transport Ordinance Concerns

Another major issue discussed by the court was the expired ordinance on school transport. Justice Karim questioned the government’s inaction on the matter, asking whether school owners had more influence than the government itself. The government’s lawyer responded by stating that meetings were ongoing with stakeholders to create new regulations for school transport.

The Road Ahead: Water Emergency and Long-Term Solutions

The LHC’s warning about the drought risk and the urgent need for a water emergency highlights the gravity of the situation facing Lahore and other parts of Pakistan. To effectively combat the water crisis, both short-term and long-term measures must be implemented, including:

1. Immediate Water Conservation Measures
   • A declaration of a water emergency to trigger swift action.
   • Crackdowns on commercial water wastage and enforcement of fines.
2. Long-Term Strategies for Sustainable Water Management
   • Investment in water-saving technologies and infrastructure.
   • Promotion of public awareness campaigns on water conservation.
3. Government and Community Involvement
   • Formation of specialized committees to oversee water management strategies.
   • Public participation through environmental volunteer programs and education on water conservation.

Internal & External Links:

• Internal Link Suggestions:
  • How Pakistan Is Addressing the Growing Water Crisis
  • Understanding Water Conservation Measures in Pakistan
  • The Role of Technology in Water Management
• External Link Suggestions:
  • UN Water: Global Water Crisis
  • Pakistan Water Partnership: Solutions for Water Sustainability