The Water and Sanitation Agency Lahore has issued a stern warning to city residents over open manholes, announcing that attempt-to-murder cases will be registered against anyone involved in stealing, buying, or selling manhole covers. The warning was shared through WASA’s official social media channels as part of an effort to prevent further loss of life.
WASA urged citizens to play an active role in protecting their families and communities by immediately reporting any missing or damaged manhole covers in their streets or localities. Residents were advised to contact the nearest WASA office or use official complaint channels as soon as they notice an uncovered or broken manhole.
The agency made it clear that strict legal action will be taken against all individuals linked to the theft or trade of manhole covers. WASA stated that FIRs will be registered under Section 324, which deals with attempt to murder, against anyone found stealing, purchasing, or selling these covers, highlighting the serious risks such actions pose to public safety.
To facilitate quick reporting, WASA Lahore shared helpline numbers for water supply and sewerage-related complaints, advising citizens to call 1334 or 0334-1334470 to lodge complaints and ensure timely action.
The warning follows a tragic incident in Lahore’s Bhati Gate area, where a woman and her nine-month-old daughter lost their lives after falling into an open manhole. In response to the incident and on the directives of Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, several government officials were arrested on charges of negligence.
A local court has granted four days of physical remand of five accused linked to the Bhati Gate incident. The accused were presented before Judicial Magistrate Shafqat Abbas, who approved the remand request. Those named include Project Manager Asghar Sandhu, safety in-charge Hunzala, site in-charge Ahmad Nawaz, and two brothers, Salman and Usman, who were employed by a private company.
Police had requested a 14-day physical remand to conduct a detailed investigation and gather evidence by questioning those allegedly responsible for negligence leading to the fatal incident.
