Staff Report
ISLAMABAD: Seven people were taken into custody and drilling machinery was ordered to be seized after authorities uncovered illegal water drilling activity on a green belt along the Expressway near Khanna Pul.
The action was taken following complaints, with district officials moving quickly against the operation.
According to the district administration, the illegal drilling was being carried out on the green belt area near Khanna Pul along Islamabad’s Expressway. Following reports of unauthorized activity, the Deputy Commissioner of Islamabad directed officials to take immediate action against those involved.
Acting on these instructions, the Assistant Commissioner Nilore conducted an operation at the site. During the inspection, authorities found that drilling work was continuing despite the cancellation of the No Objection Certificate (NOC) previously issued for the activity.
As a result, seven individuals involved in the operation were taken into custody and shifted to the local lock-up for further legal proceedings. The administration also ordered the seizure of the machinery being used for excavation and drilling at the site.
Officials stated that the NOC for the project had already been revoked, making any further drilling activity unauthorized. The administration viewed the continued operation as a violation of official directives and environmental regulations governing public land and green belt areas.
The district administration said it remained committed to monitoring illegal activities and responding to public complaints.
Authorities added that action would continue against individuals or groups found carrying out unauthorized excavation, drilling, or other activities on public land.
Further legal proceedings against those detained were expected to follow in accordance with applicable laws and regulations.
