CDA Cancels WASA NOCs for Tube Wells Along Islamabad Expressway
The Capital Development Authority (CDA) has withdrawn the No Objection Certificate (NOC) previously issued to WASA Rawalpindi for the installation and operation of tube wells along the Islamabad Expressway service road between Faizabad and the Koral Interchange.
Following the decision, authorities have also directed the immediate shutdown of all tube wells operating under the revoked approval, citing concerns over groundwater depletion in the area.
According to an official notification, WASA Rawalpindi was granted permission in June 2022 to install 15 tube wells in the green belt along the expressway. However, subsequent assessments indicated that the approval was granted without a comprehensive evaluation of local groundwater conditions.
Officials stated that excessive extraction of groundwater led to a noticeable decline in the water table, affecting surrounding residential areas. Reports suggest that private boreholes and domestic water sources in nearby localities also dried up, resulting in water shortages for residents.
Residents of the affected areas had reportedly raised concerns and staged protests, urging authorities to take action against the ongoing extraction activity.
In response, the competent authority ordered the cancellation of the NOC and reviewed similar permissions related to groundwater extraction along adjoining sections of the Islamabad Expressway.
The directive requires the immediate cessation of operations at all tube wells operating under the revoked approvals. Authorities said the decision aims to address environmental concerns and protect groundwater resources in the region.
