- The license for industrial zones will be valid for 2 years.
- All previous licenses to cancel: notification.
- 5 million rupees fine for water theft and illegal sale.
The Karachi Water and Sewerage Corporation (KW&SC) announced a new policy regarding groundwater drilling to curb water theft and ensure government revenue, company CEO Syed Salahuddin Ahmed said on Saturday.
According to the notice issued by the water supply company, the license to extract groundwater in industrial areas will be valid for two years.
Additionally, all previous licenses will be suspended as meters will be installed in all wells, the notification said. He added that the license will be mandatory for the use of groundwater for industrial purposes.
The notification further mentions that each license will have a maximum set of four boreholes/casewells situated nearby. However, if someone is interested in having more than four piercings, they will need to apply for an additional license.
According to the notification, five categories have been created for groundwater: industrial, groundwater operator, commercial, educational and healthcare institute and residential complex.
A KW&SC spokesperson said a five-member committee has been formed for the issuance of the licence.
The spokesperson maintained that the water corporation's drilling line will be 330 feet away from the reservoir and pumping station, adding that license holders will be fined Rs 5 million for stealing or selling water illegally.
