The Pakistan Council of Research in Water Resources (PCRWR) has warned that the country will approach absolute water scarcity by 2025.According to report, Pakistan touched the water stress line in 1990 and crossed the ‘water scarcity line’ in 2005. If this situation continues, then chances are high the country will face acute water shortage or drought-like situation in the near future, the study predicts. To deal with the upcoming situation, there is a need to carry out research at various levels to find out the best possible solutions. The PCRWR is an apex body of the S&T ministry responsible for carrying out, coordinating, organising and promoting The objective behind the endowment fund is to avoid its dependence on the annual Public-Sector Development Programme and on recurring budget expenses on research. The council has sought Rs50 million for the government. The fund also aims to focus on water scarcity for agriculture and poverty alleviation by carrying out surveys at various levels without wasting time to obtain PSDP funds, the documents state. The primary source of funds shall be from the income of the proposed endowment funds and the savings out of the research projects awarded by the international and national donors to the PCRWR with the seed-money of Rs50 million coming from the government.The looming water crisis is also a result of climate change that is responsible for the shrinking of the glaciers of the Himalayas. Faulty downstream management leads to further wastage. Though seepage replenishes the aquifer, it also reduces water availability. Traditional irrigation methods add to water woes. Instead of using water as per the seasonal crop demand, farmers are in the habit of inundating fields, which causes a lot of water wastage. The most effective and modern irrigation drip sprinkler system is not common. The government needs to build small water storage structures to recharge groundwater. Collecting rainwater to recharge the aquifer is also a good option. Farmers should be imparted awareness on how to more efficiently use limited water to boost food production while conserving water sources. The government should take the latest warning about water scarcity seriously and start efforts for preserving water for our present and future needs.It is very troubling news that the federal government has miserably failed in formulating a water policy for the country that could be acceptable to all provinces. There is a need to pay attention to water development and management. There are vast arid lands in Balochistan and Thar that depend on rainwater only. The government should pay attention to the water needs of these areas and employ innovative methods that can help ward off scarcity and severe droughts. New reservoirs must be built in areas that are hit by flash floods every year. It is time for the government to recognise its responsibilities and start taking steps in the right direction. Pakistan needs serious and immediate steps with the consultation of all stakeholders to resolve this issue otherwise situation may deteriorate in future.
