As the country is facing a severe water scarcity, Chief Justice Mian Saqib Nisar on Thursday blamed the rulers for the water crisis, saying that they only ask for votes and do not provide basic necessities to the public. While hearing a suo motu notice on water crisis, he observed that the government did not do anything during the last two years to ensure a steady supply of water. He questioned the government's performance and asked if they ever prioritized water crisis and arranged any funds to fill the gaps.
The Chief Justice observed that water along with minerals worth billions of rupees was being wasted in the country. "I feel like begging for charity to construct dams and pay off debt," he said. The additional attorney general, who was present during the hearing, spoke about water crisis in Islamabad, saying the federal capital needs 120 million gallons of water but is being supplied less than half of its demand - 58.7 million gallons.
He said the rural areas on the other hand are not receiving water at all. To this, the Chief Justice said that after Karachi, Islamabad is in need of water tankers. Justice Nisar remarked that water is not flowing into the Simly Dam due to failed policies. The officials of Metropolitan Corporation Islamabad said no money was spent on water supply schemes after 1960. They further said that there was no choice but to channel water from Tarbela Dam.
The Chief Justice observed that practical steps are needed to resolve the water crisis. He sought recommendations on water policy within 10 days before he adjourned the hearing. Referring to former President Asif Ali Zardari and deposed Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, the Chief Justice said both the leaders have not achieved anything in their tenures. "The slogan asking for respect for vote should be replaced by respect for water. Respect for vote implies that the government ensures provision of basic rights of the people," he noted.
He said the top court could not remain oblivious to the plight of the masses. "We need to demonstrate our commitment."
The apex court directed Aitzaz Ahsan to serve as a coordinator for the issue and draft a water policy within two-three days. He is also instructed to submit a detailed report pertaining to the water crisis, reservoirs and drinking water. The Chief Justice said there is an outcry over shortage of water and for building dams, as the matter can worsen in the future.
Later, Ahsan was given time until June 21 to submit a report. The court also summoned chief commissioner Islamabad, cantonment board officer and chairman Capital Development Authority (CDA).
Malik Abrar, Zamurd Khan and Malik Mehboob - the owners of tube wells, have also been summoned while the authorities have been directed to close down their wells. The apex court also directed authorities to demolish illegal encroachments along Korang Nullah in Islamabad's Bani Gala area. During the hearing of Bani Gala encroachment case, Justice Nisar said the apex court will not allow housing on public property. "Bulldoze unclaimed properties," he ordered.
The court was informed by the additional attorney general that the people whose houses were found to be constructed on illegal land had approached the federal ombudsman. The court has given 10 days to the illegal residents to submit a reply. The hearing was adjourned until June 24.
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