KARACHI:
Water depletion is accelerating at an alarming pace in Pakistan and across the world. Even regions blessed with regular rainfall and natural streams are now facing shortages and falling water tables. The crisis is no longer distant and therefore demands immediate, practical action.
A key priority for Pakistan shoulld be the construction of water storage reservoirs to preserve surface water and recharge underground reserves. Equally concerning is the misuse of public land. Areas meant for collective benefit are often occupied for private gain, undermining long-term resource management. At the same time, freshwater is being used recklessly for agriculture and construction with little regard for sustainability. Restoring traditional water channels can help replenish ecosystems while also creating economic opportunities. Deforestation is compounding the problem. According to Global Forest Watch, Pakistan has lost nearly 9.6% of its tree cover since 2001. This loss, combined with rising carbon emissions, has reduced groundwater levels significantly.
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has seen particularly severe deforestation, leading to biodiversity loss and worsening water scarcity. Regions such as Soon Valley, Kallar Kahar, Chakwal, Namal, Okara-Sahiwal, Karak, Pishin and Chilas reflect the scale of the crisis nationwide. Afforestation must therefore become a national priority to protect water resources and revive biodiversity. The challenge is urgent but solvable. It requires decisive policy enforcement.
Iqbal bin Sultan
Mianwali
