LAHORE: The government has decided to expand the scope of water and sanitation agency (Wasa) services from district headquarters to tehsil level across the province in a bid to ensure provision of better civic facilities to the public at large at grassroots level.

The directions have also been issued to the authorities concerned to initiate the next phase of Wasa’s expansion, extending its services to all 99 tehsils of Punjab.

According to a spokesperson for the housing, urban development and public health engineering department, the decision has been taken following the successful implementation of urban flood management and drainage systems in major cities.

The initiative will introduce modern drainage systems, sewerage planning, desilting campaigns, and improved disposal mechanisms at the tehsil level, ensuring better civic services for rural communities.

The spokesperson said the department’s secretary has directed all departments concerned to complete the administrative, technical, and operational arrangements required for the expansion of Wasa services to every tehsil.

According to the secretary, the Wasa network would be expanded in phases to provide modern drainage systems and improved civic facilities in rural areas. He further directed that comprehensive public awareness campaigns be launched to educate citizens about drainage management, sanitation, and preventive measures. He instructed that awareness messages should also be disseminated through mosques, Imambargahs, and other community platforms to maximise public outreach and participation.

The expansion of Wasa services will significantly improve drainage, sewerage management, and the provision of essential civic facilities in urban and rural areas. A summary of the proposal in this regard has also been submitted to the chief minister for approval.

Published in Dawn, August 4th, 2026