Running dry

Pakistan has been facing a severe water crisis for many years now, and the situation is only getting worse. From urban centres like Karachi, where taps run dry for days, to rural regions like Cholistan, where both humans and cattle suffer from acute water shortages, the crisis is a daily reality for millions. Recognising the urgency of the issue, Pakistan has called for global action at the upcoming 2026 UN Water Conference. Speaking at the UN at the conference’s organisational session, Pakistan’s Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad highlighted the country’s vulnerability to climate change and the potential for water scarcity by 2035. His emphasis on cross-border water cooperation is a necessary step, given Pakistan's history of water disputes with India. Transboundary water agreements need to be strengthened to ensure equitable distribution and prevent water from becoming a weapon in political conflicts. Initiatives such as 'Living Indus' and 'Recharge Pakistan' show the country’s commitment to sustainable water management, but these efforts must be scaled up significantly. Greater transparency in water-sharing agreements and improved infrastructure for water storage and distribution are also essential to securing the nation's future.

Climate change remains one of the greatest threats to Pakistan's water security. The country relies heavily on snowmelt and rainfall, both of which have become increasingly erratic due to global warming. Yet, Pakistan's response to climate change has been inadequate. Technological advancements in agriculture that could conserve water and optimise crop irrigation remain underutilised while unchecked construction and poor urban planning exacerbate the destruction caused by flash floods. These are internal issues that Pakistan must address on its own rather than relying solely on external funding. Public awareness campaigns on water conservation and the implementation of efficient irrigation techniques could significantly improve water management at the grassroots level. The unequal distribution of water in urban areas is another major concern. In Karachi, where the tanker mafia has taken near-complete control of water resources, many residents are forced to pay exorbitant amounts for basic water needs. Meanwhile, those who can afford an uninterrupted supply often waste it carelessly. The Lahore High Court’s recent decision to fine individuals for washing cars at home is a step in the right direction, but broader measures must be introduced to penalise water wastage, especially in the summer months when shortages peak.

Water scarcity is not Pakistan's problem alone. According to the World Wildlife Fund (WWF), 1.1 billion people worldwide lack access to clean water, and 2.7 billion experience water shortages for at least one month every year. Poor sanitation due to water scarcity exposes 2.4 billion people to diseases like cholera, typhoid and polio. In Pakistan, contaminated water has played a direct role in the persistence of polio. Strengthening water purification and waste management systems must become a priority for policymakers which is why Pakistan's call for international cooperation on water security is a welcome move. However, meaningful progress requires more than just diplomatic appeals; it demands robust national policies and stringent conservation efforts at home. If Pakistan wants to ensure water security for future generations, it must take immediate action to reform its water management practices, curb waste,and implement climate-resilient strategies. Investing in desalination plants, water recycling programmes, and improved irrigation methods could make a tangible difference in securing sustainable water resources for the country.