'Climate change intensifying Pakistan’s water crisis'

TAXILA: Experts, civil society members and local residents at a Lok Chopal held in Taxila warned that Pakistan’s water crisis is worsening and could become far more severe in the future if urgent steps are not taken to conserve and manage water resources more effectively.

The public dialogue, organised under the theme Pakistan: Thirsty While Sitting Beside Water, was held at Kiani House in Taxila through a collaboration between the Gandhara Taxila Centre for Development, Gandhara Odyssey Private Limited and Taxila Baithak. Participants discussed water scarcity, water pollution and what they described as the inefficient use of water resources across the country.

Experts call for urgent policy action

Dr Hassan Abbas, introduced as the chief guest and a water resources expert, said Pakistan is moving closer to a situation in which per capita water availability is falling to troubling levels. He said the problem has been worsened by climate change, rapid population growth, excessive groundwater extraction and weak water management practices.

He stressed the need for stronger policymaking at the national level, expansion in water storage capacity, the use of modern irrigation methods and wider public awareness aimed at water conservation. He also cautioned that if serious action is delayed, future generations could face acute shortages along with related social and economic difficulties.

Shared responsibility highlighted

During the discussion, participants said the crisis should not be seen as the responsibility of state institutions alone, adding that citizens also have a role in protecting water resources. Speakers underscored the importance of reducing waste in homes, farms and industry, and called for more careful and efficient use of available water.

Those attending the event also voiced support for practical initiatives at the local level and broader public awareness efforts to help secure Pakistan’s water future. At the close of the session, speakers called for closer coordination among experts, social activists and local communities, and urged the adoption of a joint strategy to respond to the country’s water challenges.