Pakistan Grapples With Manhole Cover Thefts As ‘Gutter Law’ Brings 10-Year Jail Threat
In cash-strapped Pakistan, stealing a manhole cover could now land offenders behind bars for up to 10 years along with a fine of up to 50 lakh Pakistani rupees. The tough new punishment, dubbed the Gutter Law, was announced by Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, daughter of former prime minister Nawaz Sharif.
New Delhi, February 6: In cash-strapped Pakistan, stealing a manhole cover could now land offenders behind bars for up to 10 years along with a fine of up to 50 lakh Pakistani rupees. The tough new punishment, dubbed the Gutter Law, was announced by Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, daughter of former prime minister Nawaz Sharif.
In a viral video, Maryam Nawaz warned that anyone stealing, buying or selling manhole covers would face strict action. “We install covers in the morning and by evening they disappear. Do not steal gutter covers,” she said, highlighting the growing civic danger. Pakistan: Lawyers Brutally Thrash Clients With Chairs Outside Court, Video of Violent Brawl Goes Viral.
Pakistan Announces 10-Year Jail, INR 50 Lakh Fine For Manhole Cover Theft
The move follows a tragic incident near Data Darbar in Lahore, where a woman and her infant daughter died after falling into an open sewer. Similar incidents have been reported across Punjab. Alina Amir Viral Video: New Link Trap of Pakistani Girl after Fatima Jatoi and Marry.
Authorities say economic distress is fuelling the thefts, as iron rings from covers fetch money in scrap markets. A 2025 World Bank report said about 45 percent of Pakistan’s population lives in poverty, underscoring the scale of the crisis.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Feb 06, 2026 05:38 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).