Water wars

A pervasive problem of illegal water hydrants has long been overlooked in Karachi

In the bustling city of Karachi, water means power. Millions of residents strive to secure their basic every day necessities while a pervasive problem of illegal water hydrants has long been overlooked. These illicit sources of water distribution not only pose a threat to livelihood and public health but also bring to light the dire need for a comprehensive overhaul of the city’s water infrastructure and management.

Over the years, illegal water hydrants have proliferated across Karachi unabated, acting as shadowy alternatives to the city’s already strained main water supply system. These unregulated sources often derive water from the main lines or through underground water reserves, extracting an essential resource that should be reserved for the public’s benefit. In collusion with government and regulatory officials, tanker mafias have seized control of free water supply meant for citizens in order to sell it back to them at extortionist rates through artificial shortages. This hydro-hegemony has been thriving for decades due to the lack of oversight from the authorities, in particular KWSB which is mandated by law to provide the citizens access to clean water. The existence of these illicit hydrants raises serious questions about equitable distribution of water throughout the city. While some posh neighbourhoods may enjoy relatively stable water access, often aided by illegal sources or power or influence, others are left dry and parched, facing shortages that last for days. This disparity is reprehensible and a fair and transparent distribution system must be prioritisesd to meet the needs of all the residents, regardless of their socio-economic status.

Addressing this issue requires a multifaceted approach. Karachi cannot afford to ignore the perilous presence of illegal hydrants any longer. First and foremost, the authorities must crack down on illegal hydrants, holding those responsible accountable for their actions. Simultaneously, the KWSB must take proactive measures to expand and improve the official water supply system to meet the city’s ever-growing demands.

Published in The Express Tribune, September 12^th, 2023.

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