Punjab Government Introduces Strict Ordinance to Curb Theft and Damage of Public Utilities

The Punjab government has approved the Punjab Public Utilities Infrastructure Protection Ordinance 2026, introducing stringent penalties, including imprisonment and hefty fines, for theft or damage of public infrastructure such as manholes, streetlights, and other government installations.

The ordinance aims to tackle the rising incidents of vandalism and theft targeting public utilities across the province. Under the new law, individuals found stealing public infrastructure can face one to three years in prison, along with fines ranging from Rs2 million to Rs3 million.

Those involved in unauthorized removal, purchase, or sale of public installations may also face one to three years of imprisonment and fines between Rs500,000 and Rs3 million. Meanwhile, damaging public infrastructure carries a punishment of three months to one year in jail and fines from Rs50,000 to Rs200,000.

The ordinance further imposes strict penalties on scrap dealers and re-rolling plants involved in the illegal trade of government installations. Offenders may face up to three years in prison with fines ranging from Rs1 million to Rs10 million. Repeat violations can result in three to six years of imprisonment and fines between Rs300,000 and Rs10 million.

Authorities noted that if such actions result in loss of life, legal proceedings will also be pursued under the Pakistan Penal Code.

A spokesperson for the Punjab Housing Department said the scope of laws concerning manhole covers has been expanded under the ordinance.

“Those who damage public assets meant for citizens deserve no leniency,” the spokesperson said, adding that the legislation was introduced on the directives of the Chief Minister of Punjab to target mafias and gangs involved in vandalism and theft of public infrastructure.