Karachi Launches Intensified Crackdown on Rampant Water Theft in Joint Operation
In a united effort, Sindh Rangers and the Karachi Water and Sewerage Board Corporation have commenced the second phase of their joint operation to combat the widespread issue of illegal water theft in Karachi.
Officials disclosed on Friday that, under the guise of subsoil water, clean drinking water meant for citizens is being unlawfully sold for commercial purposes on a significant scale.
The ongoing phase specifically targets the theft of fresh water disguised as subsoil bore operations. Law enforcement personnel are actively removing illegal water connections while confiscating heavy-duty motors and pumps used in these illicit activities.
The operation, concentrated in the jurisdiction of the Garden police station in Jamshed Town, focuses on addressing water theft in low-line areas. During this action, the restoration of a daily supply of four million gallons of water occurred, preventing a monthly loss of approximately Rs300 million to the national exchequer.
Estimates by the water board suggest an annual water theft amounting to around Rs2 billion. Initial information indicates that the stolen water originates from the 33-inch-diameter line of the water board, being sold for commercial use at inflated prices.
Following the major operation, the water supply line in Lyari’s Mira Naka saw a notable increase from two feet to six feet.
Paramilitary forces have apprehended 165 suspects through 93 operations targeting 204 illegal hydrants. The commitment is to persist with the operation until all illegal hydrants and freshwater theft in the city are entirely eradicated.
Earlier, Sindh Rangers DG Major General Azhar Waqas chaired a high-level meeting on security, addressing concerns such as street crime, water theft, anti-smuggling operations, and the deportation of migrants in Karachi.
The meeting thoroughly reviewed the implemented measures to curb these issues, reflecting a comprehensive approach to ensure the safety and well-being of Karachi’s residents.
