‘Gutter Ke Dhakkan Chori Na Karein’: Pakistan Economic Crisis Drives Manhole Cover Thefts, Maryam Nawaz Responds With Jail Law

An unusual theft has gripped Pakistan: people stealing manhole covers. Many are linking this unusual crime to the country’s ongoing economic crisis, with people reportedly stealing these covers to sell them and earn quick money.

The bizarre incidents have caught widespread attention which prompted authorities to step in. Alarmed by the rising thefts, the Punjab provincial government has proposed strict legislation to curb the incidents.

10 Years Jail For People Stealing Manhole Covers In Pakistan

In a video that is circulating online, the Punjab province Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif said, “Toh hum Punjab ke andar ke law lekar aare hai, jisme jo gutter ka dhakan chori karega, jo gutter ka dhakan bechega, jo gutter ka dhakan kharidega – un sabko

1-10 saal tak jail hogi (So we are bringing a law in Punjab where anyone who steals a manhole cover, sells it, or buys it will face 1–10 years in jail).”

She also warned that the consequences of stealing, selling or buying manhole covers could be extremely serious. If such actions lead to someone’s death, the offender could face up to 10 years in prison and a fine ranging from Rs 30–50 lakh.

“Hum gutter ke dhakan din mein laga kar jate hai, wo raat ko chori ho jate hai. Gutter ke dhakan chori na kare (We install manhole covers during the day, and they are stolen at night. Do not steal manhole covers),” she added.

The video was shared on X (formerly Twitter) with a caption: “Pakistan, already reeling under a severe economic crisis, is now seeing people steal manhole covers just to earn scrap money — a clear sign of a full-blown crisis. Alarmed by rising thefts, Punjab govt introduces a new law: stealing, selling or buying manhole covers means 1–10 years in jail. If it causes a death, punishment is 10 years’ imprisonment + a fine up to Rs 5 million.”