Punjab criminalises removal, sale of government installations without permission
Pakistan
Punjab government approves ordinance criminalising theft, damage, removal and illegal trade of public infrastructure, introducing prison terms and heavy fines to curb organised theft networks
LAHORE (Dunya News) - The Punjab government has approved the Punjab Public Utilities Infrastructure Protection Ordinance 2026, making the removal, sale or purchase of government installations without permission a criminal offence.
Under the new ordinance, individuals involved in damaging public infrastructure will face imprisonment and heavy financial penalties. The law also expands regulations previously focused mainly on manhole covers to include a broader range of government property.
The legislation was introduced on the direction of the Punjab chief minister to curb organised groups and criminal networks involved in stealing and trading public infrastructure. The ordinance covers items including manhole covers, street lights, protective fencing and other public utility installations.
According to the law, theft of government installations will be punishable by one to three years in prison and fines ranging from Rs200,000 to Rs3 million.
Similarly, removing installations without authorisation or being involved in their sale or purchase will result in one to three years imprisonment and fines between Rs500,000 and Rs3 million.
The ordinance also sets penalties for damaging government infrastructure. Offenders may face imprisonment from three months to one year along with fines ranging from Rs50,000 to Rs200,000.
Authorities have also introduced strict punishments for scrap dealers and re-rolling plants found involved in illegal trade of stolen government infrastructure. Offenders may face up to three years imprisonment and fines ranging from Rs1 million to Rs10 million.
In cases of repeated offences, imprisonment may extend from three to six years, while fines may range between Rs300,000 and Rs10 million.
The ordinance further states that if such offences lead to loss of life, relevant provisions of the Pakistan Penal Code will also be applied against those responsible.
Officials say the move aims to protect public assets, improve urban safety and prevent accidents caused by missing or damaged public infrastructure. The law is expected to strengthen enforcement against organised theft operations targeting government property across the province.
