RAWALPINDI STAFF REPORTER
A high-level meeting was held today under the chairmanship of the Director General (DG), Rawalpindi Development Authority (RDA), Kinza Murtaza, to address pressing issues concerning water shortage, rainwater harvesting, wastewater recycling, and sewage treatment systems.
During the meeting, the DG RDA issued clear directives for the implementation of robust water conservation strategies, especially within clusters of Private Housing Schemes (PHS). These initiatives aim to safeguard local water resources, which are facing increasing stress due to rapid urbanization and unregulated water consumption. Developers have been instructed to integrate sustainable practices including rainwater harvesting, wastewater recycling, and the installation of water-efficient systems in all residential developments.
The DG RDA, Kinza Murtaza also emphasized the enforcement of Right of Way (ROW) regulations for rivers. These guidelines are designed to ensure the preservation and proper management of riverbanks, prevent illegal encroachments, and maintain natural water flow paths. The goal is to balance urban development with environmental sustainability.
Additionally, the DG RDA issued strict instructions to immediately halt pollution of local water bodies by private housing developers. She highlighted the urgent need for all housing schemes to install and maintain proper sewage treatment systems and comply with environmental regulations. She arned that strict legal action will be taken against any schemes found violating these directives, reinforcing RDA’s commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainable urban growth.
She said this is not just about compliance, it’s about securing our future. Water is a critical resource, and we must act now to protect it for the generations to come.
The meeting concluded with a strong consensus on the need for collaborative action between public authorities, developers, and residents to protect natural resources and ensure sustainable urban planning in the region.The meeting was attended by the representatives form Army Information Cell, Rawalpindi Cantonment Board, Chaklala Cantonment Board and others.
