LAHORE: The Punjab Food Authority has taken a new initiative to improve drinking water quality in the province. The Authority has issued new SOPs for companies selling bottled water across the province. According to the new SOPs, the commercial water filtration plants will improve the quality of bottled water. Officials say the updated rules aim to ensure safer drinking water for consumers across the province. The authority announced the revised guidelines after multiple inspections highlighted gaps in the filtration and testing process.
Under the new policy, all bottled water companies must replace their filtration filters every month. Plants must also maintain detailed records of each replacement. Moreover, they must upload video proof of every filter change to the PFA’s online portal. Officials believe this system will improve accountability and help track compliance more effectively.
Mandatory Testing to Strengthen Quality Control
Additionally, bottled water units must now undergo compulsory monthly testing at laboratories approved by the authority. The PFA has stated that regular testing will help identify contamination risks earlier. It will also allow inspectors to act quickly if plants fail to meet safety standards.
The PFA has directed all filtration units to complete their filter replacement by December 15. Companies must update their documentation on the online portal by the same date. Plants that fail to comply after the deadline will face closure. The authority says the deadline gives manufacturers enough time to follow the new procedures without disruption.
Authority Expands Testing Infrastructure Across Divisions
PFA Director General emphasized the importance of water quality during the announcement. He said the authority is establishing new testing labs for water and milk across all divisions. He added that these labs will improve testing capacity and reduce delays in reporting. The director general also stressed that water is a basic necessity and its quality cannot be compromised under any circumstances.
He stated that strict enforcement will continue in the coming months. He also warned that plants showing repeated negligence will face strict action. Furthermore, the PFA plans to increase field inspections to ensure compliance with the new SOPs.
Consumers Expected to Benefit from Stricter Oversight
Industry experts believe the new measures will benefit consumers by ensuring cleaner and safer bottled water. They also predict that manufacturers will adopt improved filtration technology to meet the monthly requirements. However, some small units may face operational challenges while adjusting to the revised standards.
The Punjab Food Authority asserted that the safety and health of the consumers is its topmost priority.
