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Etor is a basic requirement for life. Pakistan, especially Punjab, is facing a severe water crisis. The province is facing increasing water shortage, lowering groundwater levels and urban floods are increasing due to drainage systems. The situation has increased due to the rapid civilization, water management and climate change.
Punjab relies heavily on groundwater for drinking and agriculture. Excessive extraction of groundwater has resulted in severe aquifer reduction, especially in urban centers like Lahore, Rawalpindi and Multan. In addition, the poor flood of storm water has become a repeated problem due to poor infrastructure.
The need for sustainable, integrated water management approach has never been too important. Recognizing these challenges, Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has handed over the Punjab Municipal Development Fund Company to ground projects to improve water resources, reduce floods and promote sustainable water methods in partners.
The program, led by the PMDFC, has taken important steps to tackle these challenges, to ensure sustainable water management and urban flexibility. PMDFC efforts are in line with CM’s vision to improve service supply.
One of the most important initiatives is the introduction of underground water storage tanks in program partner cities in Punjab cities. This was the first time in Lahore, Syed Zahid Aziz started in his tenure as MD Wassa Lahore, when underground water tanks were prepared at Lawrence Garden, Kashmir Road and Sheranwala Gate to control the floods.
The success of these projects made a copy not only in Lahore but also in other cities under the program of Punjab cities. These underground tanks fulfill the dual purpose. One, they occupy the storm water and prevent the floods. Two, this stored water has been re -prepared for irrigation, road spraying and other non -use. The move is a testament to the PMDFC’s commitment to sustainable urban water management and climate.
Another move under the leadership of Zahid Aziz, according to the CM’s vision, has been introduced to the zero scrap value manhole cover. The theft of cast iron municipal core in urban areas has been a permanent problem, which has increased road risks and maintenance costs.
To identify this, the core has been introduced with a zero scrap value. Now, this modern solution is being transmitted to 16 partner cities under the PCP, which has effectively eliminated privileges for theft and ensures public protection.
In addition, under the guidance of CM, PMDFC has been at the forefront of modern water treatment solutions. Zahid Aziz was the first to introduce the use of wet areas and plant -based treatment systems floating for waste water purification.
This method of natural treatment not only improves water quality but also promotes environmental balance by using aquatic plants to filter pollution. The company has successfully completed pilot projects in Sheikhupura and Rajanpur. Such a sustainable approach is compatible with the best methods globally in water protection and demonstrate the PMDFC commitment to environmentally friendly urban development.
Although the PMDFC has made significant progress to tackle the challenges of Punjab water management, several important steps will be taken to ensure long -term water safety and stability.
The leadership of Syed Zahid Aziz in the water sector has been recognized nationally and internationally. In addition to his role as MD, PMDFC, and CEO, Punjab Clean Water Authority, he served as MD Wasa Lahore and Faisalabad, where he played an important role in modernizing the water supply and sanitation system. His contribution goes beyond Punjab. He is also a member of the Pakistan Water Operators Network (PWON) chairperson and a member of the Global Water Operators’ Partnership Alliance (GWOPA). This affiliation highlights the water sector reforms and implementing the best methods in Pakistan.
Under his leadership, the PMDFC has been helpful in eliminating the gap between the formation of policy and the implementation of the ground level. The organization has worked together with the municipal committees of the city to develop a comprehensive water management strategy, increase the drainage infrastructure and promote social awareness of water protection.
Innovative technologies, such as GIS mapping and data -powered decision -making integration have improved the performance and effectiveness of these initiatives.
Although the PMDFC has made significant progress to tackle the challenges of Punjab, several important steps will be taken to ensure long -term water safety and stability. One, implementation of a smart water metering system can help regulate water consumption and reduce loss.
In order to complete the underground water storage tanks, the rainwater harvesting system must make new urban developments. Increasing waste water recycling and reuse can significantly reduce the pressure on fresh water resources.
For the regulation of groundwater, strengthening the policy framework is very important to avoid excessive extraction. This can be achieved by strict enforcement of groundwater abstraction laws and promoting effective water methods in both industrial and agricultural sectors. Also, raising public awareness about water protection through educational campaigns and community engagement programs can promote the culture of responsible water consumption.
The steps of PMDFC have been reinforced by the Chief Minister of Punjab, Maryam Nawaz Sharif, who has called for effective development and effective management of sustainable development and water resource management.
Under his leadership, Punjab is witnessing a new commitment to the development of the urban infrastructure, to ensure the resolution of the flexible and sustainable water. With continuous efforts and strategic planning, PMDFC measures will pave the way for water secure Punjab, and will guarantee access to this invaluable resources for future generations.
The author is a communication and public relations professional with an 18 -year experience, which has been worked with diverse organizations in public and private sectors.
