The recently concluded 6th Karachi International Water Conference, organised by Hisaar Foundation in collaboration with Infra Zamin and other partners, served as a pivotal forum....
chatter matter
The prevailing focus on the climate emergency has overshadowed a critical issue: the water crisis. While the last two centuries saw a surge in carbon emissions, this century’s challenge lies in the direct impact on global water systems. Boiling oceans, melting ice, rising sea levels, and intensified weather events are altering the entire global water regime. Water-related disasters have become the primary manifestation of the climate emergency, demanding attention from governments, corporations, organisations, academics, and citizens alike.
The recently concluded 6th Karachi International Water Conference, organised by Hisaar Foundation in collaboration with Infra Zamin and other partners, served as a pivotal forum. Attended by diverse participants, the conference addressed pressing issues surrounding water crises and climate discourse through fifteen insightful sessions. The event also featured the launch of ‘Undertow,’ a photographic book by Maazim Kamil, showcasing captivating images.
Simi Kamal, chairperson of Hisaar Foundation, inaugurated the conference, leading the ‘Opening Plenary: Water Matters in Climate Change.’ Dr Adil Najam, President WWF International, guided the discussion on framing the water and climate change discourse. The second session explored the intersection of water and finance, highlighting the importance of investing in Pakistan’s water economy.
The conference delved into various aspects, including justice in water distribution, the hidden links between water quality and human health, and nature-based solutions in watershed management. Day one concluded with discussions on the role of women in water-related issues, the circular economy’s impact on water quality, and the significance of water disasters.
Day two of the conference continued with sessions addressing critical subjects related to the water crisis and climate change. Panels discussed making the water economy an agent of prosperity, the importance of oceans, wetlands, and biodiversity in the blue economy, and a national stocktaking of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
An open dialogue called ‘Café of the Unheard’ explored unconventional perspectives on water issues. Subsequent sessions discussed Karachi’s water supply concerns, transformative solutions for food security, and public-private partnerships redefining municipal services. ‘The Closing Plenary’, ‘Water Matters for the Future,’ featured an MOU signing, speeches by distinguished guests, and a powerful rendition by the KGS Middle Section choir, stressing the urgency of addressing water challenges.
The conference concluded with a reflective note, emphasising collaboration and a renewed commitment to addressing the water crisis and climate discourse. It underscored the power of collective action in confronting global challenges.
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