The Karachi Metropolitan Corporation (KMC) Council has approved a resolution to impose fines for using tap water to wash vehicles on streets, in residential lanes, and at commercial centers across the city.
During a recent council session, Karachi Mayor Murtaza Wahab proposed a Rs. 10,000 fine to curb water wastage. He stated that fines will be imposed based on complaints received from Union Council (UC) chairmen, and the collected amount will be spent within the respective UC.
Najmi Alam, a member of the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), voiced concerns about excessive water use, saying vehicles are routinely washed using pipeline water near Do Talwar and in homes, causing water to spill onto the streets.
Opposition leader Advocate Saifuddin criticized the mayor’s focus, pointing out that while residents face water shortages, the administration is making long-term plans for 2050. He also highlighted how the K-IV water project has ballooned from Rs. 20 billion to Rs. 200 billion, raising serious concerns about planning and execution.
He further alleged that water pipelines across the city are being deliberately damaged under the guise of planning, and warned that the opposition is preparing for public protests and demonstrations.
In response, Mayor Wahab announced that a dedicated session on water issues will be held next week to address the city’s growing water crisis.