KARACHI:
Over the years, the threat of water scarcity has intensified due to rising populations and emerging climate challenges. By 2050 water demand is expected to increase by more than 50%. Sanitation issues and water degradation have amplified the issue of water scarcity. More than 40% of household water needs to be treated correctly.
Under the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 6, countries expressed their commitment to ensuring clean water and sanitation by 2030. However, many countries are unlikely to meet this goal as the issue cannot be managed by one country alone. International organisations and countries need to work together to address the rising water scarcity issue and ensure that everyone has access to potable water and sanitation. Countries will need to resolve disputes over water bodies and form a consensus over equitable water supply.
Water action needs to be a focal point of national and diplomatic policies. On average, 1 out of 4 people does not have access to clean drinking water. There is an urgent need to focus on water conservation and sustainable water management. We need to safeguard and reinstate water-related ecosystems. The novel techniques based on scientific methodologies have the potential to fulfil the cause of promoting sustainable water management. The government should include public and private organisations in efforts for water action. People should be informed of the need to conserve water and the importance of clean water.
Dr Intikhab Ulfat
Karachi
Published in The Express Tribune, March 25th, 2023.
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