Water scarcity is one of Khairpur’s most critical issues, a problem that has worsened over the years despite various development plans and promises. The city’s current water supply falls drastically short of meeting its growing needs and the water supply infrastructure, much like in many other cities in the region, is outdated, inefficient, and costly. The existing system not only wastes significant amounts of water but is also prone to frequent failures. Adding to this crisis is the pervasive influence of water tanker operators, often referred to as the ‘tanker mafia’. These groups have flourished in the absence of a reliable government supply, turning water into a highly profitable yet exploitative business.
They control access to water, frequently diverting resources meant for public use and selling it at inflated prices, thereby creating a parallel water economy that deepens the crisis. Addressing this issue requires a comprehensive, multi-pronged strategy. The foremost priority should be modernising Khairpur’s water supply infrastructure with efficient, advanced technologies to reduce wastage and ensure fair distribution. Alongside this, the government must take stringent action against the tanker mafias, dismantling their operations and reclaiming control over the city’s water resources.
Rizwan Ahmed Pato
Khairpur Mirs