Faisalabad (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News – 2 April, 2026) Director General of Water and Sanitation Agency (WASA) Saqib Raza described the theft and trade of manhole covers as a serious legal offense and directed the agency’s officers to take strict action against those involved in this crime.
During the meeting, he directed that cases be registered against those involved in stealing or purchasing stolen manhole covers and that strict legal measures be taken against them without any discrimination.
He said the Citizens Liaison Cell (CLC) of WASA had launched an awareness campaign to prevent such incidents. As part of this campaign, CLC staff are visiting schools, colleges, community centres, mosques and religious schools and meeting with local notables to educate the public about the legal implications of theft of manhole covers.
He stressed that the Punjab government has declared that the theft and sale of manholes constitutes a serious crime, and those involved could even face cases under charges of attempted murder due to the potential risks they pose to human lives.
In this regard, CLC employees visited Jami Naoshahi Mosque in Sabzi Mandi Ghulam Muhammadabad where they briefed the students and teachers on preventive measures and public safety regarding the theft of manhole covers.
MD WASA reiterated that the directions issued by the Punjab government are being implemented in letter and spirit and no compromise will be reached on implementation.
He stressed the need to make collective efforts to reduce this threat and ensure public safety by protecting essential civilian infrastructure.