ISLAMABAD: The Capital Development Authority (CDA) has launched a major cleanliness drive around Rawal Dam, while the long-delayed project to build three sewage treatment plants in its catchment areas remains pending.
Several years ago, the federal government and CDA had planned to construct three sewage treatment plants in Banigala, Bari Imam, and Shahdara following Supreme Court orders to stop the pollution of Rawal Dam. However, the Rs6.1 billion project has faced years of delay due to insufficient funding.
Despite repeated commitments, the government has only allocated Rs100 million for the project in the 2025–26 federal budget, showing that its completion is not among the government’s top priorities.
A CDA official said the civic body was ready to start work but the project depended on federal funding. “A committee has been formed to decide the technology for these treatment plants.
Once the report is ready, we will begin the tendering process,” he said, adding that the CDA had requested either full funding to complete the project at once or permission to execute it in phases.
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Meanwhile, untreated sewage and solid waste continue to flow into Rawal Dam through Korang Nullah and other streams, contaminating the water. Sewage from nearby areas, including Murree, Bari Imam, Bhara Kahu, and Banigala, remains a major source of pollution.
In 2021, the CDA had invited bids for the project, but no contract was awarded due to limited funds. Another attempt was made later, but it also failed to attract bidders.
Amid this delay, the CDA on Sunday began a “comprehensive cleanliness campaign” around Rawal Dam on the directions of CDA Chairman Mohammad Ali Randhawa. The Solid Waste Management Directorate has started removing garbage and debris from the surroundings of the reservoir.
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According to a CDA press release, strict action has been initiated against those violating solid waste regulations. “Fines are being imposed on restaurants, housing societies, and commercial centres found responsible for littering around Rawal Dam,” the statement said.
Mr Randhawa also directed the inclusion of civil society, students, and Islamabad residents in the campaign to expand its reach. The drive will take place from morning to evening on October 15. Participants can register through the CDA website or contact the Director of Solid Waste Management directly.
The CDA chairman said the campaign aims to raise awareness against littering and promote civic responsibility. “These efforts will help protect aquatic life and preserve Islamabad’s natural environment,” he added.
