Raja Waqar Ahmed
As the world observes World Water Day on March 22, the focus turns to regions coping with water scarcity and management issues, notably Pakistan and Azad Jammu &Kashmir. Amidst growing populations, climate change, and infrastructure challenges, these areas face significant water-related challenges impacting millions of lives. The theme for World Water Day 2024 is “Water for Peace”, underscoring the pivotal role water plays in fostering stability and prosperity worldwide.Pakistan’s water crisis is multifaceted, with issues ranging from water scarcity to pollution and inadequate infrastructure. The country heavily relies on the Indus River and its tributaries for water supply, making effective water management crucial for agriculture, industry, and domestic use.One of the primary concerns is water scarcity, exacerbated by population growth, inefficient irrigation practices, and erratic rainfall patterns. As a result, many regions face water shortages, particularly during the dry season, leading to economic hardships and social tensions.Furthermore, water pollution poses a severe threat to public health and ecosystems. Industrial discharge, agricultural runoff, and inadequate sanitation systems contribute to the contamination of water sources, increasing the risk of waterborne diseases and environmental degradation. Azad Kashmir, located in the Himalayan region, also struggles with water-related challenges, although with its unique set of circumstances. The region relies heavily on glaciers and snowmelt for water supply, making it vulnerable to climate change-induced impacts such as glacial retreat and altered precipitation patterns. While abundant water resources are available, to dismay, inefficient water management practices and inadequate infrastructure hinder equitable access and sustainable utilization. Moreover, rapid urbanization and deforestation exacerbate soil erosion and water quality degradation, further complicating the situation. In the context of Pakistan and Azad Kashmir trans-border water sharing, the second largest reservoir of Pakistan (Mangla), constructed in Mirpur AJK, plays a crucial role in water supply to the plains of province Punjab and Sindh, hence upstream investments are essential to prolong the lifespan of this reservoir, as well as to other reservoirs of the country. However, the issue of equitable water distribution is a pressing concern, particularly in regions like Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), especially district Mirpur&Bhimber, which are facing water availability challenges both for drinking and irrigation purposes, despite the districts encompassing the Mangla reservoir. The Mangla Raising Agreement, signed to facilitate the increase in the dam’s storage capacity, includes provisions for water allocation to AJK. However, due to various administrative and logistical hurdles, AJK has not been able to access its rightful share of water from the reservoir. This disparity highlights the need for transparent and equitable water management practices to ensure that all regions receive adequate water resources for their agricultural and domestic needs. Addressing all water related challenges requires coordinated efforts at local, regional, national, and international levels. Governments, civil society organizations, and the private sector must collaborate to develop comprehensive strategies for water resource management, including: Investing in infrastructure, promoting conservation through modern irrigation system and water harvesting practices, enhancing governance, fair water sharing approach, adopting to climate change and raising awareness. International Training on Irrigation System & Water Management by AARDO-NCRD To sensitize the major issues of water management and irrigation system in African-Asian regions, African-Asian Rural Development Organization (AARDO) in collaboration with National Centre for Rural Development (NCRD) organized 10-days (27-Feb to 07-March 2024) international training on “Irrigation System & Water Management” in Pakistan.Participants from 10 member countries of the AARDO, along with professionals from Pakistan and Azad Kashmir, attended the training workshop. The training aimed to enhance the participants’ knowledge about water resources management and discuss the efficient use of water through different irrigation methods and technologies. The participants, with diverse backgrounds in irrigation & water management, rural development, agriculture engineering and research & development, engaged in discussions about the present water resource situation in African and Asian regions. They also delved into government policies and strategies related to water resources management while sharing their experiences and suggesting measures for improvement. To supplement theoretical knowledge with practical exposure, the participants visited various water resources development projects in Pakistan, such as Chashma Barrage, Tarbela Dam, Mohmand Dam, and High-Efficiency Irrigation System Farms in Chakwal. These visits provided a first-hand understanding of the challenges and opportunities in water management and irrigation systems. The training culminated in a closing ceremony chaired by the Director-General of NCRD, where participants shared their learning experiences and expressed gratitude for the insightful training. The key takeaway from the training was the importance of wise water usage and the adoption of modern irrigation patterns to conserve this limited resource. As the world struggles with increasing water scarcity, it is imperative to invest in modern technologies and innovative irrigation systems to optimize water utilization and minimize wastage. Certificates were distributed to the participants, symbolizing their commitment to enhancing water management practices in their respective countries. As the world commemorates World Water Day, it serves as a reminder of the urgent need to address water-related challenges facing Pakistan, Azad Kashmir, and other vulnerable regions. By adopting holistic approaches and fostering partnerships, it is need of hour to work towards ensuring equitable access to clean and sustainable water resources for present and future generations.
