Two-day water festival, technological fair concludes

Islamabad:The curtains have fallen on the highly successful Pakistan Water Week 2023, International Conference, held in Islamabad, where a diverse array of stakeholders convened to underscore the indispensable role of water in life and development. 

The closing ceremony was a culmination of three days of intensive discussions, collaborations, and groundbreaking insights that promise to reshape the landscape of water and food system planning and management in Pakistan.

Organised by the International Water Management Institute (IWMI) in partnership with the Pakistan Council of Research in Water Resources (PCRWR) through the Ministry of Water Resources (MoWR) and support from UNICEF, GIZ Pakistan, Pakistan Water Week 2023 emerged as a pivotal platform for addressing the critical challenges posed by water scarcity, fragility, conflicts, and migration. IWMI, in particular, played a pivotal role in spotlighting the crucial importance of managing water resources and conducting research to mitigate these challenges.

Collaborations and knowledge exchange were actively fostered during the event, placing a strong emphasis on promoting systematic cross-sectoral thinking within the food and water systems. The event delved into three key thematic areas — climate-resilient pathways, inclusive water governance, and technologies and innovation — with the overarching goal of advancing climate-resilient development in Pakistan. In the discussions on climate-resilient pathways, participants explored strategies to navigate environmental challenges and adapt to changing climatic conditions, demonstrating a commitment to sustainable development. The conversations on inclusive water governance focused on promoting equitable access to water resources, fostering social inclusivity, and addressing the needs of marginalized communities in the Indus Basin. Lastly, in the exploration of technologies and innovation, participants sought innovative solutions to enhance water management and agricultural practices, reflecting a forward-looking approach to shaping the nation's future. This collaborative effort marked a significant stride towards a more resilient and inclusive development trajectory for Pakistan.

Dr. Mark Smith, the Director General of IWMI, passionately expressed, "Through the integration of knowledge, research, and innovation, our steadfast commitment is to translate these elements into collective action. Our overarching goal is to contribute meaningfully to the construction of a future characterized by resilience and sustainability, particularly in the realms of water, food, and ecosystems. By actively engaging in this mission, we aspire to play a pivotal role in fostering positive transformations for the benefit of our global community."

Key partners in this initiative, which included FCM Initiatives and the Pakistan Council of Research in Water Resources (PCRWR), joined in the celebration of achievements and emphasized the important role that water plays in shaping the trajectory of a nation.

Water Week stands as a pivotal platform, fostering collaboration among diverse stakeholders. As we reflect on its significance, it becomes evident that this annual event not only provides opportunities for meaningful dialogue but also lays the foundation for sustainable water management practices. The collective efforts showcased during the international conference undoubtedly pave the way for a future where water resources are conserved, protected, and harnessed for the well-being of our communities and the environment." - Dr. Hifza Rasheed, Director General, PCRWR President Arif Alvi highlighted the pressing need for water pricing, stating, "It is imperative to implement water pricing, a crucial requirement of our time." Drawing inspiration from Islamic teachings, he emphasized, "Islam, 1400 years ago, advocated the careful use of water, as even Prophet Muhammad urged prudent water usage, emphasizing the importance of conservation.