Pakistan's Water Crisis: A Call for Action

Water scarcity occurs when the demand for safe, usable water surpasses its availability in a specific area. Globally, agriculture consumes 70% of freshwater resources, with industry and domestic uses accounting for 19% and 11%, respectively. The primary sources of freshwater include surface water from rivers, lakes, and reservoirs, and groundwater extracted from aquifers. However, measuring water stress is complex due to seasonal variations, water quality issues, and inconsistent data, particularly concerning aquifers. Experts like Upmanu Lall from Columbia University caution that such measurements often overlook critical factors like groundwater stock and usage.

In Pakistan, the challenge of water scarcity is particularly acute, driven by mismanagement, rapid population growth, and the adverse effects of climate change. Despite having access to one of the world’s largest irrigation systems and a rich network of rivers fed by Himalayan glaciers, Pakistan is on the verge of becoming a water-scarce country. The current state demands an urgent reevaluation of water management policies and practices.

Causes of Water Scarcity in Pakistan

Water scarcity in Pakistan can be categorized into physical and economic scarcity, both of which are compounded by human-induced factors.

1. Pakistan's water supply is heavily reliant on the Indus River system, which provides nearly 90% of the country's water. However, changing climatic patterns have led to inconsistent rainfall, glacial melting, and reduced river flows. Seasonal water shortages and increasing demand further exacerbate the issue.

2. Even where water is available, inadequate infrastructure limits its accessibility. Rural areas often lack irrigation canals, reservoirs, and modern water storage systems, leaving communities dependent on inefficient and traditional practices.

3. Over-reliance on groundwater extraction through tube wells has led to a significant decline in water tables across urban and rural areas. For instance, Lahore’s groundwater levels drop by approximately one meter annually due to unchecked pumping.

4. Rising temperatures and erratic weather patterns, such as floods and prolonged droughts, disrupt the availability and quality of water resources. In 2022, devastating floods displaced millions and inundated large swathes of agricultural land, highlighting the volatility of Pakistan’s water system.

5. Pakistan’s rapidly growing population, projected to exceed 240 million by 2030, is placing immense pressure on limited water resources. Urban expansion and industrialization further strain the water supply, particularly in densely populated cities like Karachi and Lahore.

6. Inefficient irrigation practices, such as flood irrigation, lead to significant water loss. Moreover, there is limited public awareness regarding water conservation and modern irrigation techniques like drip and sprinkler systems.

Impacts of Water Scarcity on Pakistan

1. Agriculture, which accounts for 97% of Pakistan’s water usage, is severely impacted by water shortages. Major crops like wheat, rice, and sugarcane require substantial irrigation. Reduced water availability leads to lower yields, threatening food security and rural livelihoods.

2. Limited access to clean water exacerbates public health issues. Over 3.5 million cases of waterborne diseases, including diarrhea and cholera, are reported annually. Women and children are particularly vulnerable, often bearing the burden of fetching water from distant sources.

3. Water scarcity disrupts industries reliant on water, such as textiles and food processing, which are critical to Pakistan’s economy. Additionally, hydroelectric power generation, which supplies nearly 30% of the country’s electricity, is affected by reduced river flows.

4. Overextraction of groundwater and mismanagement of surface water have led to desertification, salinization, and loss of biodiversity. Coastal regions, such as Sindh, face saltwater intrusion due to reduced freshwater inflows.

Solutions for Addressing Water Scarcity in Pakistan

1. Pakistan currently has the capacity to store water for only 30 days, compared to the global standard of 120 days. Constructing new dams and reservoirs, such as the Diamer-Bhasha Dam, can increase storage capacity and regulate river flows.

2. Adopting efficient irrigation methods, such as drip and sprinkler systems, can significantly reduce water wastage. These technologies deliver water directly to plant roots, optimizing usage and increasing crop yields.

3. Implementing policies to regulate groundwater extraction is critical. Licensing tube wells and promoting rainwater harvesting can help recharge aquifers and maintain sustainable groundwater levels.

4. Encouraging rainwater collection at community and household levels can provide an alternative water source for domestic and agricultural use. Cities like Islamabad have initiated rainwater harvesting projects, but these need to be scaled up nationwide.

5. Establishing desalination plants in coastal regions, such as Karachi, can provide an additional source of freshwater for urban and industrial needs.

6. Public awareness campaigns highlighting the importance of water conservation can drive behavioral change. Farmers should be educated on modern irrigation techniques and the long-term benefits of efficient water use.

7. A comprehensive National Water Policy that addresses interprovincial water sharing, climate adaptation, and sustainable management is essential. Ensuring transparency and accountability in water governance can also reduce inefficiencies.

8. Engaging with international organizations and neighboring countries for technical assistance, funding, and knowledge sharing can accelerate progress. Pakistan’s participation in transboundary water management initiatives can help address shared challenges.

Case Studies: Lessons for Pakistan

1. A Water Management Pioneer Israel, a water-scarce country, has transformed its water sector through innovation. The country recycles nearly 90% of its wastewater for agricultural use and employs drip irrigation on a large scale. Pakistan can adopt similar strategies to optimize its water use.

2. Community-Led Rainwater Harvesting in Rajasthan, India, community-driven rainwater harvesting projects have revived groundwater levels and supported agriculture in arid regions. Pakistan’s drought-prone areas, such as Tharparkar, can benefit from such grassroots initiatives.

3. Efficient Water Management the Netherlands uses advanced technology to manage water resources efficiently, including flood control and precision irrigation. Pakistan can learn from the Dutch approach to address its dual challenges of flooding and water scarcity.

Health and Social Impacts

Water scarcity has far-reaching consequences for health and social well-being. Limited access to clean water increases the prevalence of waterborne diseases, while inadequate sanitation contributes to malnutrition and stunted growth in children. The psychological burden of water insecurity, particularly on women responsible for water collection, often leads to social stress and reduced productivity.

Conclusion: A Call to Action

Pakistan’s water crisis is a multifaceted challenge that requires immediate and sustained intervention. By investing in infrastructure, adopting modern technologies, and fostering a culture of conservation, the country can ensure the sustainable use of its water resources. Collaboration between government agencies, private stakeholders, and communities is essential to implement these solutions effectively.

The time to act is now. With strategic planning, Pakistan can not only avert a looming water crisis but also set an example for other water-stressed nations. Prioritizing water security will strengthen agriculture, safeguard public health, and ensure economic stability, paving the way for a more resilient and prosperous future.

Please note that the views expressed in this article are of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views or policies of any organization.

Sadia Fiaz is affiliated with the Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, Faculty of Health and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad, Pakistan.

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