This investigation undertook a comprehensive physicochemical characterization of wastewater effluents originating from the Quaid-e-Azam Industrial Estate, Lahore, using random sampling method. A broad spectrum of water quality indicators was systematically analysed in accordance with standardized analytical protocols prescribed by international environmental quality assurance guidelines. These parameters included total dissolved solids (TDS), total suspended solids (TSS), biochemical oxygen demand (BOD), chemical oxygen demand (COD), electrical conductivity (EC), total Kjeldahl nitrogen (TKN), total hardness (calcium and magnesium), turbidity, sulfate concentrations, and trace heavy metals including cadmium, chromium, copper, lead, nickel, silver, and iron. Quantitative results revealed alarming exceedances from permissible thresholds as delineated by the World Health Organization (WHO) and Pakistan’s National Environmental Quality Standards (NEQS). Specifically, the concentration ranges exceeding threshold levels were: BOD (142.12–247.52 mg/L), COD (209–364 mg/L), turbidity (110.43–260 NTU), TSS (1143 1305 mg/L), TKN (40–350 mg/L), EC (17.82–2534 µS/cm), and Cadmium (0.43–0.83 mg/L). Additionally, the levels of Calcium and Magnesium hardness also transcended regulatory limits, indicating substantial ionic contamination and water hardness. Statistical correlation analysis underscored significant positive associations between several parameters, indicating possible co-emission or similar origin sources like: BOD-COD (r = 0.94), TSS-SO4-2 (r = 0.91), TDS-EC (r = 0.85), Ca hardness- SO4-2 (r = 0.82), TKN-Cd (r = 0.93), TKN-Ni (r = 0.84), Cr-Ag (r = 0.76), and Ni-Cr (r = 0.78). These interrelationships suggest complex pollutant interactions and potential synergistic impacts on aquatic ecosystems. This research contributes substantively to the existing body of knowledge regarding anthropogenic impacts on urban water bodies in Lahore and serves as a foundation for evidence-based policy formulation and environmental remediation strategies.