Lahore Launches Initiative to Restore and Raise Underground Water Levels

Lahore is gearing up to implement a large-scale water conservation project that will see the construction of 1,000 groundwater recharge wells across the city. The initiative is designed to help restore and maintain the city’s rapidly depleting underground water table, which has been declining due to years of over-extraction and unregulated use.

Secretary Housing Noor-ul-Amin Mengal recently visited the Liberty Chowk recharge well site, where WASA Managing Director Ghufran Ahmed briefed him on the project’s progress. Officials explained that each recharge well has the capacity to replenish around 8,000 gallons of groundwater per day. At present, three recharge wells are already operational in Lahore, and construction is underway to establish more at 15 key locations throughout the city.

Mengal stated that this project reflects the Punjab Chief Minister’s vision of adopting modern engineering solutions for sustainable water management. As part of the plan, the Parks and Horticulture Authority (PHA) will dedicate space within city parks for the installation of recharge wells, ensuring minimal disruption to green areas.

He emphasized that special care will be taken to preserve existing trees during construction and noted that several strategic decisions have been made to combat environmental pollution. The Water and Sanitation Agency (WASA) Punjab will also expand the groundwater recharge initiative to other parts of the province to maximize its impact.

“Water is a blessing, and we must prevent its wastage,” Mengal said, urging all departments to collaborate and complete the project with full dedication. The initiative marks an important step toward sustainable urban development and environmental resilience in Punjab.