Faisalabad to Launch Punjab’s Largest Wastewater Treatment Project to Tackle Pollution and Climate Challenges

FAISALABAD: Faisalabad is set to witness a major environmental milestone as the Punjab government, in collaboration with Danida Sustainable Infrastructure Finance (DSIF), begins work on the province’s largest wastewater treatment project. Punjab Secretary Housing Noor-ul-Amin Mengal, accompanied by WASA Managing Director Sohail Qadir Cheema, reviewed arrangements at the project site and termed the initiative crucial for improving urban resilience amid growing climate pressures.
The project, designed to treat 33 million gallons of wastewater per day, carries an estimated cost of Rs 56 billion. Of this, Rs 53 billion will be provided by DSIF as a tied loan and grant, while the Punjab government will contribute Rs 3 billion. The mega project will be executed under the Design, Build, and Operate (DBO) model and is expected to be completed by September 2028.

MD WASA described key components include the construction of a modern wastewater treatment plant, rehabilitation of Main Channel-4, installation of a trunk sewer line from the channel’s terminal point to the treatment facility, and the creation of a main force line to discharge treated water into the Gugera Branch Canal. The project also features renewable energy generation through biogas, enabling the production of up to 3 MW of electricity, along with three years of operations and maintenance.
He said that the initiative as a unique and transformative project that will convert untreated sewage into water suitable for agriculture—reducing contamination of canals, lowering disease risks, and easing environmental degradation. Officials noted that treating wastewater will cut methane emissions, improve soil and water health, and enhance Faisalabad’s climate resilience.
Once operational, the project is expected to significantly reduce environmental and air pollution, aligning with Pakistan’s broader climate adaptation goals while supporting sustainable urban development.