LHC Recommends Water Emergency Pattern on Corona Lockdown to Tackle Water Shortage Crisis

The Lahore High Court (LHC) has made a bold move to combat Punjab’s escalating water crisis by recommending a “Water Emergency Pattern on Corona Lockdown.” This unprecedented suggestion reflects the urgency of the situation and mirrors the stringent measures taken during the COVID-19 pandemic. The directive, aimed at protecting dwindling water resources, highlights the grave concern over climate change, water wastage, and mismanagement.

Water Emergency Pattern on Corona Lockdown: A Judicial Proposal

In a written order issued by Justice Shahid Karim, the court emphasized that an emergency pattern—like the one during the coronavirus lockdown—must be enforced to avert a looming drought in the region.

• The matter has been referred to the provincial cabinet for urgent review.

• The next hearing is scheduled for April 11, with expectations for a formal report and action plan.

• This proposal is not merely advisory—it outlines a multi-level enforcement model that includes legal actions, public awareness, and inter-departmental coordination.

Court-Ordered Actions Against Water Waste

The LHC’s order doesn’t stop at policy-level suggestions. It directs tangible steps to penalize water wastage in households and housing societies:

Key directives include:

• Complete ban on using water pipes for car washing at homes.

• Imposition of fines by the Cooperative Department on individuals and society administrations for wasting clean water.

• The fine amount must be clearly stated in office orders to ensure transparency.

• The Cooperative Housing Societies have been warned to revise their guidelines immediately.

“A complete ban should be imposed on wasting clean water by installing pipes in homes,” reads the LHC order.

Role of PDMA in Water Conservation

The court stressed the importance of PDMA (Provincial Disaster Management Authority) in addressing this crisis. According to the order:

• PDMA must take the lead in implementing the water emergency plan.

• A committee of focal persons from relevant departments should be formed.

• These focal persons are expected to submit reports on their respective department’s water conservation efforts.

• PDMA should coordinate with WASA, Environment Department, Irrigation Department, and local bodies to establish an effective and integrated approach.

The Director General of PDMA highlighted that river water levels are dropping due to climate change—a major trigger behind the urgency of this directive.

Public Awareness Campaign Initiated

In a proactive step following the LHC orders, Deputy Director of Environment, Ali Ejaz, launched a citywide awareness campaign in Lahore:

• Citizens have been warned about strict penalties for washing vehicles at home.

• A Rs. 10,000 fine will be imposed for violations.

• Legal action may also be taken against repeat offenders.

• Notices were issued requesting residents to use recycled water or water in buckets for necessary washing.

This campaign aims to instill a culture of responsible water usage among the general public, starting from urban centers.

Why Punjab Needs a Water Emergency Now

The water crisis in Punjab is no longer a distant threat—it is a present reality.

Contributing Factors:

• Rapid climate change leading to low rainfall and decreased river flow.

• Unchecked urbanization and overuse of clean water in households.

• Lack of public discipline and awareness about water conservation.

• Poor infrastructure for water recycling and storage.

Potential Risks:

• Severe drought conditions across urban and rural regions.

• Drastic decline in agricultural output due to water scarcity.

• Long-term health impacts from inadequate sanitation and hygiene.

How Citizens Can Contribute

The success of a Water Emergency Pattern on Corona Lockdown depends heavily on public cooperation. Here’s how you can play your part:

Do’s:

• Use buckets instead of running taps for washing.

• Recycle greywater from kitchen or laundry for gardening.

• Report leaks and illegal water connections to local authorities.

• Spread awareness among friends, family, and neighbors.

Don’ts:

• Don’t use pipes for car washing at home.

• Don’t leave taps running unnecessarily.

• Don’t ignore official water-saving advisories.

Every drop counts, and responsible behavior at an individual level can make a massive impact collectively.

Conclusion and Recommendations

The LHC’s bold recommendation of a Water Emergency Pattern on Corona Lockdown highlights the severity of the water crisis in Punjab. With the PDMA at the helm and public support, this model could become a blueprint for nationwide water conservation policies.

By transforming the way we use and perceive water, we can:

• Prevent future droughts,

• Preserve essential resources, and

• Ensure sustainable development for the next generation.

Recommended Reading:

• How Climate Change Is Impacting Water Supply in Pakistan

• PDMA Punjab Official Website

• 10 Tips for Water Conservation at Home