Punjab Government Delays Crucial Water Project in Gujar Khan

Gujar Khan, a city with a population exceeding 0.2 million, is currently facing a severe water shortage. The municipal authorities have proposed the construction of an overhead reservoir (OHR) to improve the water supply system in response to the challenges faced by residents in 19 densely populated residential wards spread across three union councils.

The deputy commissioner of Rawalpindi has given the green light for the construction of a 75,000-gallon capacity OHR in the Karroli area. However, the project hit a roadblock as the Punjab government delayed approval at the last minute, despite funds being available and the bidding process being completed.

To address the water scarcity in Gujar Khan for the next five decades, the Public Health Engineering Department has put forth a plan to utilize the Ogah Hoon dam near the city as a water source, with an estimated cost of Rs 875 million.

The current water supply infrastructure in Gujar Khan comprises 23 tube wells and an outdated OHR awaiting demolition. With only one functional reservoir, the municipality is facing challenges such as pipeline damage and erratic water supply due to electricity load shedding.

Residents are urging the Punjab Chief Minister to intervene and implement short-term and long-term solutions to mitigate the water crisis affecting a significant portion of the population.

The water shortage in Gujar Khan is a pressing issue that requires immediate attention and action from authorities. The proposed construction of an overhead reservoir and the utilization of the Ogah Hoon dam present viable solutions to address the long-standing water scarcity problem. It is crucial for the government to prioritize the well-being of the residents and ensure a sustainable water supply system for the city's future.