Experts warn of looming water crisis

Speaking at a seminar on "Clean Water Situation in Punjab" Punjab Aab-e-Pak Authority CEO and Managing Director of the Punjab Municipal Development Fund Company Syed Zahid Aziz highlighted the looming water crisis in Pakistan despite its abundant water resources.

Addressing the audience as a special guest at the event organised by the Rotaract Club of the Senior Tutor Office of the University of Agriculture, Faisalabad, Aziz emphasised the urgent need for water conservation measures to safeguard this precious natural resource for future generations.

Aziz noted that Pakistan, being one of the world's most populous countries, faces significant challenges in managing its water resources, with only 32 countries globally experiencing a worse per capita water situation.

He underscored the importance of raising awareness about population control and implementing efficient irrigation systems focused on value crops, along with enhancing the public distribution network.

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Highlighting ongoing initiatives, Aziz mentioned collaborative projects with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) aimed at ensuring access to clean drinking water in Faisalabad, including the construction of 34 new dams in Potohar.

Dr Shahab Aslam, Additional Deputy Commissioner General, echoed Aziz's sentiments, emphasising the need for public awareness to curb water wastage and
address the water crisis effectively.

Dr Shaukat Ali, Senior Tutor, stressed the importance of promoting a participatory approach to encourage responsible water usage in society.

Dr Fahd Rasul highlighted the alarming decline in per capita water availability in Pakistan since independence, from 5,000 cubic metres to just 900 cubic metres, leading to widespread health issues due to water contamination.

Published in The Express Tribune, February 22^nd, 2024.