Katas Raj. Photo: blog.travel-culture.com

ISLAMABAD: Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Justice Mian Saqib Nisar on Wednesday took a suo motu notice of the drying out of Katas Raj Temples pond in Chakwal. 

The pre-historic fabled pond is said to be drying out because of the huge amount of water consumption in cement factories nearby.

The factories are reportedly sucking water through more than hundred drill bores, which have severely reduced the subsoil water level. That is beside the position that owing to the absence of proper water supply for the local areas of Katas Waulah and city Choa Saidan Shah, almost every home is depleting the water table by boring. 

The problem is also caused by the unreasonable plantation of eucalyptus trees in the region.

Taking notice of the issue, the chief justice has sought a detailed report from Archaeology and Museum DG, Evacuee Trust Property Board secretary, Punjab Archeology Department DG and Chakwal deputy commissioner within three days.

Katas Raj comprises of Hindu temples, a Buddhist stupa and other historic relics situated around a lake that is deemed sacred by Hindus.