In a move reflecting growing concern over the city’s worsening water crisis, the Karachi Water and Sewerage Corporation on Friday took strict disciplinary action against two of its senior officials.
Officials said the decision came after internal reviews revealed serious negligence in curbing water theft — a persistent issue that continues to deprive many residents of their fair share of supply.
According to a KW&SC spokesperson, Executive Engineer Civil Mushtaq Ahmed and Executive Engineer Civil Muhammad Ali were suspended from their positions after failing to maintain proper oversight in their respective divisions. Despite repeated instructions to strengthen monitoring mechanisms, both officers were unable to control illegal connections and unauthorised extraction of water.
Water theft had long plagued Karachi’s distribution system, often leading to shortages in several neighbourhoods. Residents in affected areas had repeatedly complained about irregular supply, forcing many to rely on expensive private water tankers. Authorities believe weak supervision at key operational levels had allowed such practices to continue unchecked.
Following the suspensions, both engineers had been directed to report to the Human Resource Development and Administration Department, where further proceedings against them are expected. A formal notification confirming the action had also been issued by the Director of Personnel, signalling the seriousness of the matter.
KW&SC officials stressed that this step was part of a broader effort to restore transparency and accountability within the organisation. They reiterated that negligence, especially in matters affecting essential public services, would not be tolerated under any circumstances.
The corporation had vowed to intensify its crackdown on water theft across the city. With stricter monitoring and enforcement measures in place, authorities aimed to ensure a more equitable and reliable water supply for Karachi’s residents, many of whom continue to struggle for access to this basic necessity.
