Pakistan faces severe water scarcity: Urgent measures needed to combat drought

ISLAMABAD, March 22,2025 – Pakistan is one of the top 10 countries globally grappling with severe water scarcity, according to recent reports. The United Nations has warned that Pakistan is likely to face drought this year, exacerbating the already critical water crisis.

President Asif Ali Zardari has called for immediate action to address the issue, emphasizing the need for sustainable solutions to ensure water security.

In a special message on Earth Hour and World Water Day, President Zardari highlighted the importance of energy conservation and environmental stability. He stressed that rising fuel prices and challenges in the energy sector are posing significant threats to Pakistan’s economy and environment. To combat these issues, he urged the promotion of renewable energy, energy-saving devices, and public transport systems.

The President also emphasized the need for measures to ensure access to clean and safe drinking water. He called for the protection of water reservoirs and the adoption of sustainable agricultural practices. Efficient water use at both industrial and household levels is crucial to addressing the crisis.

Senator Sherry Rehman, Vice President of the Pakistan Peoples Party, echoed these concerns, noting that Pakistan’s water resources are under immense pressure. She warned that Tarbela and Mangla Dams could reach dead levels in a few days, severely impacting the current Rabi season crops. With 40% less rainfall and snowfall this year, drought conditions have already taken hold.

Sherry Rehman also highlighted the alarming drop in groundwater levels, which are receding by one meter annually due to excessive tube well usage and climate change. She stressed that future population growth and rising temperatures will further increase water demand, making timely action critical.

To address the crisis, she called for the immediate implementation of the National Adaptation Plan, Living Indus Initiative, and Rainwater Harvesting Systems. These measures, she argued, are essential to protect Pakistan’s water resources and ensure long-term sustainability.

Pakistan’s water scarcity crisis demands urgent attention. Without immediate action, the country risks facing severe drought and food shortages in the coming years.