Punjab put brakes on washing cars at home

LAHORE: The provincial government has implemented a ban on washing cars at home across Punjab. Punjab Environment Protection Agency (EPA) has issued a notification in this regard on Thursday.

The notification said that Rs 10,000 fine for washing cars at home. A complete ban has also been imposed on washing vehicles with any type of oil.

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The decision has been taken on the orders of the Lahore High Court (LHC). EPA Director General Dr Imran Hamid Sheikh has also formed a committee on the orders of the LHC.

The LHC order directed that the entire process will be overseen by EPA, including “a concerted effort to inspect petrol pumps regarding operation of recycling plants. In case the petrol pumps are found to be lacking in their obligations in this regard, they shall be sealed with no more than one warming.”

The court order also said that wide campaign shall be initiated and “this shall be directed to be undertaken by the Chief Secretary, Punjab informing general public regarding water conservation as also that the Government had taken a decision imposing of complete ban on the use of water for washing of cars and use of hose pipes in the houses.”

The notification also included orders to close all illegal service stations immediately. The registered service stations are required to install water recycling systems by February 28. Service stations without a water recycling system will be fined Rs 100,000.

A ban has also been imposed on flood irrigation of lawns, gardens, golf courses and green belts. Use of groundwater in construction activities has also been prohibited. Only surface water or recycled water can be used for such activities.

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All restrictions under the Punjab Environmental Act have been made effectivity immediately, with the violators to be punishable under Section 188 of the Pakistan Penal Code (PPC), in addition to fines mentioned above.