Governor Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Faisal Karim Kundi has issued a stark warning about the escalating water crisis in Pakistan, declaring climate change and water resource protection as critical national-level challenges that demand immediate action.
Urgent Need for Dams and Modern Irrigation
Speaking as chief guest at a two-day workshop titled "Impacts of Climate Change on Water Resources in Pakistan" at the University of Peshawar, Governor Kundi emphasized that the construction of new dams and development of modern irrigation systems across the province have become essential for national survival.
"Water is the foundation of life and saving every drop is our shared responsibility," stated Kundi, expressing regret that serious efforts to address water issues were neglected in the past. He highlighted the tremendous potential that proper water management could unlock, noting that thousands of acres of barren land in southern districts could be brought under cultivation through secured water reservoirs.
Multiple Dimensions of Water Crisis
The Governor presented a comprehensive analysis of the water crisis, explaining that it extends far beyond environmental concerns. Water scarcity directly impacts national security, economic stability, energy planning, and inter-provincial harmony, creating a multifaceted challenge that requires coordinated national response.
Kundi warned that failure to address these issues wisely could lead to severe economic and administrative challenges for Pakistan in the coming years. He described how unpredictable weather patterns have already deeply affected farmers, while water shortages in urban areas continue to escalate and natural ecosystems deteriorate at an alarming pace.
Glacial Melt Poses Dual Threat
The Governor drew attention to the alarming rate of glacial melt in the Himalayas, Karakoram, and Hindu Kush mountain ranges, which presents both immediate and long-term dangers to the country.
"The rapid glacial melting increases the risk of short-term flooding and glacial lake outburst floods while posing long-term threats of drought and food insecurity," Kundi explained, painting a picture of the complex challenges Pakistan faces from climate change.
The workshop, jointly organized by the National Centre of Excellence in Geology (NCEG) Peshawar and the Centre of Excellence in Water Resources Engineering, brought together numerous experts and officials including Pro-Vice Chancellor University of Peshawar Prof Dr Naeem Qazi, NCEG Director Prof Dr Liaqat Ali, and Director General Water and Resource Regulatory Authority Engr Roh-ul-Mohsin.
Governor Kundi praised the workshop as timely and commendable, assuring participants that he would convey their recommendations and proposals to the federal government. He expressed determination that through collective efforts, Pakistan can achieve water security and environmental resilience despite the formidable challenges ahead.
