The Punjab government has approved Rs 8.5 billion under the Punjab Development Programme to improve water supply and sewerage systems in Rawalpindi through the Water and Sanitation Agency (WASA).
Out of the total amount, Rs 3.5 billion has been allocated for a water supply project in Union Councils 76 and 77. This scheme includes the installation of 12 new tube wells and the replacement of old, damaged pipelines. The project aims to provide clean and reliable drinking water to thousands of residents in these areas.
Another Rs 5 billion has been approved for a sewerage project. This will upgrade old sewerage lines in underserved neighbourhoods and replace deteriorated pipelines to reduce overflow and improve sanitation.
WASA Managing Director Azizullah Khan said these projects will greatly improve access to clean water and solve long-standing sewerage problems across the city. He added that the schemes will benefit both urban and cantonment areas.
However, sewerage schemes worth Rs 4 billion planned for the Cantonment Board areas have been deferred. These will only move forward after approval from the federal government.
Residents of Rawalpindi have welcomed the development, as the city often faces water shortages in summer and sewerage issues during monsoon rains. Officials hope the projects will bring noticeable relief once completed.
This major investment shows the Punjab government’s focus on fixing basic infrastructure problems in important cities like Rawalpindi. Work on the approved schemes is expected to start soon.