Law: Constitution of Pakistan, 1973

Section: 9,14

Law: Punjab Land Acquisition Rules, 1983

Section: 14

Summary of the Order on Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP) in Lahore

Background

In 1991-92, WASA acquired 6,937 kanals of land in Lahore’s Babu Sabu, Jhuggian Nagra, and Niaz Beg areas for setting up a Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP) to prevent contaminated water from flowing into the River Ravi. However, the project remained stalled for over three decades due to funding challenges.

Funding Challenges and Revised Plans

• Initially, the World Bank was to finance the project, but negotiations failed.
• WASA is now seeking funding from the French Development Agency (AFD).
• Approval from ECNEC is expected by August 2025, after which loan negotiations will begin in February 2026.

Environmental and Economic Importance

• The WWTP is crucial for preventing pollution in River Ravi, which supports irrigation, biodiversity, and local livelihoods.
• Pakistan ranks 8th in climate vulnerability and 23rd in the 2024 Inform Risk Index, making water treatment a climate adaptation priority.
• The project aligns with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), especially SDG 6 (Clean Water), SDG 13 (Climate Action), and SDG 14 (Life Below Water).

Delays and the Need for Alternative Funding

• The prolonged delay violates fundamental rights under Articles 9 and 14 of the Constitution (Right to Life & Dignity).
• WASA is urged to explore alternative financing mechanisms, including Islamic climate finance.

Recommendations for Funding and Technology

Islamic Climate Finance:

• WASA should consider Green Sukuk (Islamic bonds), Waqf (Endowments), and Public-Private Partnerships as debt-free financing options.
• Examples include Indonesia’s $1.25 billion Green Sukuk (2018) and Malaysia’s SRI Sukuk for water conservation.

Cost-Effective Wastewater Technologies: