KARACHI:
Safe drinking water remains a serious concern for the residents of Tharparkar. In rural areas, families generally depend on wells and other water sources for their daily needs. However, the water available from these sources is not generally safe for drinking. According to the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics 2023 Census, only 14.81% of households in Tharparkar had drinking water available inside their premises. This shows how difficult it is for a majority of thefamilies to access water for their daily needs. In some areas, people have to travel long distances to collect water, which takes valuable time and effort.
The quality of water is another concern. Water from some wells may contain high levels of salt or get contaminated due to poor protection and maintenance. Consuming unsafe water can increase the risk of waterborne diseases, particularly among children. The time spent collecting water can also affect education and the daily lives of families.
The government has set up RO plants to provide clean drinking water, but their functionality remains a concern. In 2025, a reported assessment found that out of 832 RO plants in Tharparkar, only 101 were functional. Proper maintenance, regular monitoring and timely repairs are therefore necessary to make these facilities useful for the people. The departments concerned must take steps to ensure access to safe drinking water in the remote areas of Tharparkar. Rainwater harvesting and suitable solar-powered water systems could also provide sustainable solutions.
Jeevan Kumar
Mithi
