Water Crisis in Pakistan
Pakistan’s big arguably, biggest — problem is water scarcity.
The country faces acute water scarcity by 2025 and will be the
most water-stressed country in South Asia within two decades.
Almost 30 million Pakistanis have no access to clean water.
According to the World Bank (WB) and Asian Development
Bank (ADB), Pakistan is one of the most “water-stressed”
countries in the world; it is likely to face an acute water
shortage over the next five years due to lack of water
availability for irrigation, industry, and human consumption. A
WB report states that the water supply in Pakistan has fallen
from 5,000 cubic meters per capita to 1,000 cubic meters in
2010 and is likely to further reduce to 800 cubic meters per
capita by 2020. Contributory factors consist of an increase in
population, climate change, lack of a solid vision to construct
water reservoirs, and misplaced use of Jhelum and Chenab
rivers by India under the Indus Water Treaty (IWT) of 1960 that
has resulted in reduced flow of water to Pakistan.
Dimensions of Water Crisis
The water crisis has two dimensions.
1- First is the distribution of water among the four provinces,
particularly between Punjab and Sindh.
2- The second is between Pakistan and India arising because
of utilizing water from the Chenab and Jhelum rivers. The
first problem basically arises from the second one.
Causes of Water Crisis:
1. Population Growth and Urbanization:
Pakistan has one of the world’s highest population
growth rates, putting immense pressure on water
resources. Rapid urbanization further strains water
supplies as cities expand and demand for water
increases.
2. Climate Change:
Pakistan is vulnerable to the impacts of climate change,
including irregular rainfall patterns, glacial melting, and
increased frequency of droughts and floods. These
factors disrupt the water cycle and affect water
availability and quality.
3. Mismanagement and Inefficient Irrigation:
Inefficient irrigation practices, outdated infrastructure,
and poor water management contribute to the water
crisis. Outdated canals, leaky pipes, and inadequate
drainage systems result in significant water losses.
4. Groundwater Depletion:
Over-extraction of groundwater for agriculture and
domestic use has led to a rapid decline in groundwater
levels. This overexploitation is unsustainable and
contributes to the overall water scarcity.
5. Pollution and Contamination:
Water pollution from industrial effluents, agricultural
runoff, and inadequate sewage treatment further
exacerbate the water crisis. Contaminated water
sources pose health risks and limit the availability of
safe drinking water.
Impacts of Water Crisis:
1. Agriculture and Food Security: Agriculture is the
backbone of Pakistan’s economy, but the water crisis
has adversely affected crop yields and agricultural
productivity. Water scarcity leads to reduced crop
production, affecting food security and livelihoods of
farmers.
2. Economic Losses:
The water crisis has significant economic implications.
Reduced agricultural output, declining industrial
productivity, and increased energy costs due to water
scarcity contribute to economic losses and hinder
sustainable development.
3. Health Issues:
Limited access to safe drinking water and poor
sanitation facilities contribute to the spread of
waterborne diseases such as diarrhea, cholera, and
hepatitis. The lack of clean water and proper sanitation
infrastructure poses significant health risks, particularly
for vulnerable populations.
4. Environmental Degradation:
The water crisis has severe environmental
consequences. Reduced river flows, drying wetlands,
and depletion of groundwater reserves impact
ecosystems, biodiversity, and aquatic life. It also leads to
increased soil erosion and desertification.
5. Social and Political Tensions:
Water scarcity can trigger social and political tensions,
particularly in areas where water resources are shared.
Disputes over water rights and access can escalate into
conflicts between communities or even between
different regions.
Addressing the Water Crisis:
To address the water crisis, Pakistan needs comprehensive
and sustainable strategies:
1. Improved Water Management: Enhancing water
management practices, including efficient irrigation
techniques, modernizing infrastructure, and
implementing water-saving technologies, can help
reduce water losses and improve efficiency.
2. Conservation and Rainwater Harvesting:
Promoting water conservation practices at the
individual and community levels, along with rainwater
harvesting systems, can help augment water supplies.
3. Climate Change Adaptation: Developing climate change
adaptation measures, such as water storage
infrastructure, early warning systems for floods and
droughts, and sustainable water allocation plans, is
crucial to mitigate the impacts of climate change on
water resources.
4. Pollution Control and Treatment: Implementing
stringent regulations to control water pollution,
improving wastewater treatment facilities, and
promoting sustainable industrial practices are essential
to safeguard water quality.
5. Awareness and Education:
Creating awareness among the general public about the
importance of water conservation, sanitation, and
hygiene practices is vital. Education and training
programs can foster a sense of responsibility towards
water resources.
Addressing the water crisis requires a concerted effort
from government authorities, policymakers, communities,
and individuals to ensure sustainable water management,
