The Punjab government has launched an extensive water meter installation drive across 41 cities as part of a major Rs. 5 billion initiative led by the Water and Sanitation Agency (WASA). The program aims to improve water management and ensure fair billing for consumers throughout the province.
Under this initiative, modern water meters—similar in function to electricity and gas meters—will be installed in households and commercial properties. These meters will record actual water usage, allowing consumers to be billed accurately based on their consumption. This system is expected to help curb water theft and prevent illegal connections, contributing to more efficient resource management. The project is being overseen by senior BS-19 officer Shazil Waqar, who is responsible for coordinating the rollout across the targeted cities.
In addition to the meter installation, WASA is undertaking several complementary measures to support sustainable water use. Recharge wells are being established to help restore groundwater levels, while drainage and sewerage systems are being upgraded in 34 additional cities. The initiative also focuses on reducing long-term reliance on groundwater by promoting the use of surface water sources wherever possible. This step is particularly significant in cities like Lahore, where groundwater levels have already dropped to below 700 feet, raising concerns about water scarcity in the future.
Officials stress that these measures are part of a broader strategy to ensure the sustainable management of Punjab’s water resources, improve urban infrastructure, and provide residents with reliable water services.
This update is provided for informational purposes only and is based on publicly available reports. Residents are encouraged to stay informed about the ongoing developments in their respective cities.
