Lahore: The Water and Sanitation Agency (Wasa) is set to begin a groundbreaking sewerage project in Lahore, with an estimated cost of over PKR 14 billion. This project, which will benefit over 4 million people, marks a significant milestone in Wasa’s infrastructure development by introducing Tunnel Boring Machine (TBM) technology for the first time in the city.
The ambitious project will involve the installation of sewer pipes from Larech Colony to Gulshan-e-Ravi, traversing some of Lahore’s most populous areas, including Gulberg, Dharampura, Shadman, Jorey Pul, Garhi Shahu, and Fatehgarh. The project is expected to provide critical improvements in the region’s sanitation system while reducing disruptions to daily life due to its trenchless nature.
Wasa Managing Director Ghafran Ahmed emphasized the project’s innovative approach, stating, “For the first time, we are using a Tunnel Boring Machine for sewer laying, revolutionizing our infrastructure development.” TBM technology is renowned for its efficiency and precision, enabling the creation of sewer lines with minimal surface disruption, which is crucial for densely populated urban areas like Lahore.
The project will also incorporate several advanced features, including High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) lining, vertical spinning pipe casting, and a state-of-the-art SCADA system. These features are designed to improve the durability, lifespan, and overall efficiency of the sewerage system. The use of HDPE lining will provide an added layer of protection, reducing the chances of pipe corrosion and extending their service life to up to 100 years.
The new sewer lines will replace many of the pre-partition sewerage lines in Lahore, enhancing the city’s sanitation infrastructure to better cater to the growing population. The project is expected to drastically reduce maintenance and replacement costs, thanks to the use of cutting-edge materials and technologies.
Wasa’s MD highlighted the sustainability benefits of the project, noting that the trenchless technology would streamline the construction process, minimizing the time and costs involved. He further added that this initiative would not only improve sanitation but also set a new standard for infrastructure development in the region. With the backing of the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB), this project represents a major step forward in Lahore’s urban development. Once completed, it is expected to serve as a model for future sewerage projects across the country, ensuring a cleaner, more sustainable environment for Lahore’s residents.
Samra Zulfiqar, a real estate analyst at Zameen.com, is passionate about finding projects that offer buyers the best returns. Her keen insights spotlight the market’s most promising opportunities.
