KARACHI:
Pakistan is currently facing a severe water crisis that threatens the country’s socio-economic development and ecological sustainability. The country’s annual water availability has fallen from 5,600 cubic meters per capita in 1947 to less than 1,000 cubic meters per capita in 2021. This has led to a decline in agricultural productivity, increased poverty, and food insecurity in many parts of the country.
One of the main causes of the water crisis is the mismanagement of water resources. Pakistan’s water infrastructure is outdated and inadequate, with little investment in new dams, reservoirs, and canals over the past few decades. The country also lacks a comprehensive water management policy that can regulate water use and allocation. Climate change has led to changes in rainfall patterns, reduced snowmelt in the Himalayas, and increased evaporation rates. This has resulted in a decline in the water availability of rivers and groundwater aquifers, particularly in the arid regions of Balochistan and Sindh. In addition, population growth has put pressure on water resources, with more people consuming water for domestic, industrial, and agricultural purposes.
To address the water crisis, Pakistan needs to invest in new dams, reservoirs, and canals to increase storage capacity and improve distribution networks. Efficient irrigation practices should be adopted to reduce wastage and improve crop yields. Rainwater harvesting and water conservation practices should be promoted to reduce demand and improve water-use efficiency. A robust regulatory framework should be established to regulate water use and allocation equitably and sustainably. Pakistan’s water crisis is a complex and multi-dimensional challenge that requires urgent attention and action from all stakeholders. By adopting a comprehensive and integrated approach, Pakistan can ensure the sustainable and equitable use of water resources for present and future generations.
Tahir Jamali
Shaheed Benazirabad
Published in The Express Tribune, March 4th, 2023.
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