Punjab and Sindh have allocated around 0.2 million acres of previously unused land for corporate farming, aiming to bolster food security and stimulate export growth. Notably, these farms are set to independently manage their water resources, likely tapping into underground water reserves and treating it in case the quality is found compromised. Corporate farming is crucial to boost exports and, consequently, improve balance of payment given the extensive untapped land in these provinces, historically hindered by the unavailability of freshwater provided through the canal network. Unlocking the vast underground water reserves along the Sutlej and Indus Rivers, distributed through pipelines to remote areas of Cholistan and Thar, is a viable solution. The integration of solar technology and smart agriculture, emphasizing root feeding over flood irrigation, has made these advancements possible.Turning to aquifers, while ensuring their sustainable use for both crop cultivation and human consumption, represents an effective response to the challenges arising from uncertain water supplies in the western rivers due to changing climate patterns, deteriorating irrigation infrastructure and water-intensive farming practices. To rejuvenate agriculture, it is crucial to unlock the untapped potential of the Indus Basin aquifers, ensuring a sustainable and reliable water source for this economic lifeline. If the newly leased lands prove to be productive, they can serve as a model, attracting foreign investors to participate in and contribute to the agricultural sector’s revitalization.
Exact data yet to be collected, the roughly estimated volume of Indus Basin aquifers is equivalent to the three-year medium flow of the Indus River. In addition to boosting foreign exchange reserves, ensuring food security and luring foreign investors, the Indus Basin aquifers hold the promise of meeting the increasing drinking water needs of a rapidly growing population. Many urban areas are grappling with deteriorated water quality, leading to preventable but deadly diseases. Thus, the utilisation of these underground water resources not only serves agricultural interests but also addresses critical issues related to public health in expanding cities.There is unanimous agreement on the immense potential of the Indus Basin aquifers to drive economic turnaround and improve the lives of millions teetering on the edge of malnutrition, in desperate need of access to quality drinking water. However, a significant challenge arises as the Indus Basin aquifers face tremendous stress, primarily stemming from the damming of rivers and the diversion of water to lands far from their natural flood zones. The extensive canal network exacerbates the issue, leading to salinity and water-logging problems.
Compounding these challenges is the contamination of the limited underground water resources. This contamination results from the indiscriminate use of pesticides and chemical fertilizers in agriculture, coupled with the discharge of wastewater from urban centres and industries. The consequences extend beyond diminishing crop yields and reducing export value; they impose a heavy burden on the population by contributing to preventable, yet potentially deadly, diseases.
Ensuring the sustainable use of the Indus Basin aquifers for socio-economic development in Pakistan requires a comprehensive and cautious approach. While the pursuit of foreign investment and economic turnaround is crucial, a deep sense of accountability to both present and future generations is paramount.A fundamental element of sustainable water management involves the establishment of a robust monitoring system. This system would assess both the quantity and quality of pristine water within the Indus Basin aquifers. Such monitoring is essential for enforcing regulatory mechanisms that minimize losses associated with water supplies and use. Continuous real-time data collection on underground water levels, quality and extraction rates is imperative to comprehend aquifer dynamics and promptly intervene in unsustainable trends.
To prevent over-extraction and depletion of the water table, it is imperative to establish and enforce water use limits based on scientific assessments of aquifer recharge rates. This approach ensures a balanced utilization of water resources, safeguarding against the long-term consequences of excessive extraction. Additionally, promoting crop diversification and rotation, along with advocating for precision agriculture, can optimize water usage. These practices not only enhance water efficiency but also reduce the risk of groundwater contamination associated with the irrational use of pesticides and chemical fertilizers. Community engagement and education are vital components of a successful strategy other than fostering awareness about the importance of sustainable water use and disseminating knowledge on efficient agricultural techniques empowers local communities to actively participate in preserving water resources. Investment in research and development is critical for discovering innovative water management technologies that contribute to the long-term preservation of the Indus Basin aquifers. Governments and relevant authorities should play a proactive role in incentivizing farmers to adopt sustainable practices. Financial incentives, subsidies, or tax breaks can motivate farmers to embrace methods that promote water conservation and responsible agriculture. The Indus Basin aquifers, if managed sustainably, have the potential to not only address immediate challenges but also contribute significantly to the long-term socio-economic development of Pakistan. This sustainable approach will not only secure water resources but also enhance food security, promote economic growth and mitigate the impact of unpredictable weather patterns, ensuring a more resilient and prosperous future for the nation.
—The writer is politico-strategic analyst based in Islamabad.
Email: riaz.missen@gmail.com
views expressed are writer’s own.
