KARACHI:
Water crisis in Turbat is worsening by the day. Among the worst sufferers are Danarat and the surrounding areas, where people are compelled to depend upon highly saline water. It goes without saying that high levels of salt in groundwater makes it unsuitable for drinking, cooking and irrigation. People have no other option but to rely on water filtration systems. Moreover, some families spend a significant portion of their income to purchase water from private suppliers.
The consequences extend far beyond inconvenience. Saline water contributes to skin diseases, hair loss, digestive disorders and other health complications. Furthermore, salinity damages soil fertility, reduces crop yields and destroys plants that cannot tolerate high salt concentrations.
Pakistan is already among the most water-stressed countries in the world, and communities such as Danarat are experiencing the consequences firsthand. The government should immediately invest in freshwater supply schemes, water treatment facilities, desalination technologies where feasible and sustainable groundwater management programmes. Rainwater harvesting and small-scale water storage projects should also be promoted to improve long-term water security.
Water is not a luxury; it is the foundation of life. Immediate action is needed to ensure that the people of Danarat and other affected areas have reliable access to safe and clean water.
Jalaksh Assadullah
Absor
