Punjab moves to crack down on manhole cover theft mafia: Mengal
Lahore | By Dr Ansab AliPunjab authorities have revealed the existence of an organized mafia involved in manhole cover theft across the province, prompting the government to take strict action. On the directives of Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz Sharif, preparations are underway to introduce tough legislation targeting individuals engaged in this illegal activity.Secretary Housing…
Lahore | By Dr Ansab Ali
Punjab authorities have revealed the existence of an organized mafia involved in manhole cover theft across the province, prompting the government to take strict action. On the directives of Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz Sharif, preparations are underway to introduce tough legislation targeting individuals engaged in this illegal activity.
Secretary Housing Punjab Noor-ul-Amin Mengal issued instructions to WASA Punjab, directing the introduction of imprisonment and heavy fines for offenders. He also called for the active involvement of Special Branch teams in all districts to identify those behind the thefts, while urging all Managing Directors of WASAs to trace the mafia within their respective jurisdictions.
The secretary emphasized the importance of immediate identification of existing manholes through special teams to protect the public from potential hazards. He clarified that while the number of drug addicts involved in such thefts is relatively low, it is the organized mafia that has been exploiting this loophole for years.
Mengal assured that under the Chief Minister’s directives, uniform enforcement of strict laws will be implemented across all districts to bring the manhole cover mafia to justice. He added that the government is taking all possible measures to ensure the safety of life and protection of public property.
