PAKISTAN possesses millions of acre-feet of untapped water stored in the aquifer system beneath the Indus plains, representing a substantial resource with the potential to address the escalating demands for drinking water and food security in the face of a growing population. However, it is imperative to prioritize the implementation of sustainable practices in the utilization of these strategic reserves before embarking on any large-scale exploitation ventures amidst the talks of Green Revolution-2.
Varied in depth and quality across regions, the aquifer system in the northern parts holds sweet water up to a thousand feet deep, while in the southern regions, shallower depths contain brackish water. Conservative estimates indicate that the groundwater system beneath Pakistan’s flowing rivers in the Indus plains holds a substantial reservoir of pristine water, totalling at least 400 million acre-feet (MAF).
This voluminous storage is notably significant, surpassing more than three years of the mean annual flow of the Indus River. To put it into perspective, this is equivalent to a staggering 1,000 days of storage, excluding areas contaminated by pollution. The sheer magnitude of this groundwater resource underscores its potential as a substantial and reliable water source for the nation’s diverse needs. This should now be seriously considered in the mainstream planning of Pakistan’s water resources.
The groundwater system, however, is not without its challenges. Salinity, pollution and arsenic contamination loom large over this critical water source. Practices and investment in water sector over the past six decades or so have exacerbated the deterioration of quality in the aquifers. Pakistan has already compromised a significant chunk of its extremely valuable groundwater resource.
The unconfined nature of the aquifer leaves it susceptible to surface pollution, leading to contamination by agro-chemicals and industrial wastes. Arsenic contamination, particularly alarming, correlates with agricultural and industrial activities, posing a severe health risk in several areas. According to the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics, 1.66 million tons of pesticide and 66 million tons of fertiliser have been dumped in irrigated areas since 1990s and the trends of usage in both are on the rise.
Historical mismanagement, characterized by the pursuit of mega-dams and large-scale irrigation projects, has resulted in the deterioration of aquifers. Water logging, salinity, unmanaged abstractions and indiscriminate pollution have compromised groundwater quality. Over-extraction through high-capacity tube wells not only contaminates shallower fresh water but exacerbates secondary Stalinization and soil fertility loss. The lack of well-head protection and recharge zone management has led to the pollution of freshwater aquifers with agro-chemicals and sewage.
Recognizing the urgency of addressing the water crisis and ensuring food and drinking security for its growing population, Pakistan needs a paradigm shift towards sustainable groundwater management. This multifaceted approach encompasses regulatory measures, water-efficient agricultural practices, investments in research and technology, community involvement and infrastructure development.
The sustainable use of groundwater resources in Pakistan necessitates a multifaceted approach that addresses both quantity and quality concerns while ensuring the long-term resilience of this vital water source.
Firstly, implementing robust regulatory frameworks and enforcement mechanisms is crucial. Strict guidelines should be established to govern groundwater extraction, with clear limits on abstraction rates to prevent over-exploitation. The creation of protected zones around wellheads and recharge areas is essential to shield aquifers from pollution and contamination.
Secondly, fostering water-efficient agricultural practices is imperative for sustainable groundwater use. Farmers should be incentivized to adopt precision farming techniques, such as drip irrigation and soil moisture monitoring, to optimize water usage. Public awareness campaigns can educate farmers about the benefits of these practices, encouraging widespread adoption and reducing the overall demand for groundwater in agriculture.
Furthermore, investment in research and technology is essential. Continuous monitoring of groundwater quality and quantity, coupled with the development of innovative solutions, can provide valuable insights for informed decision-making. Advanced technologies for wastewater treatment should be explored to mitigate contamination risks, and ongoing research collaborations with international organizations can bring in diverse expertise.
Community involvement is paramount for sustainable groundwater management. Local communities should be engaged in conservation efforts and educated about responsible water use. Participatory approaches, including community-based monitoring programs, can empower citizens to take an active role in safeguarding their water resources.
Lastly, infrastructure development plays a pivotal role. Investments should be directed towards building efficient water supply and distribution systems, ensuring that the pristine groundwater from protected aquifers reaches communities in need. Additionally, the establishment of water recycling facilities can contribute to reducing overall demand on freshwater sources.
Pakistan must transition towards sustainable strategies to manage its groundwater resources effectively. This includes safeguarding uncontaminated aquifers, implementing integrated management plans, promoting water-efficient practices and involving the public in conservation efforts. By adopting such measures, Pakistan can secure a reliable and safe water supply for its population while preserving the long-term viability of its groundwater resources.
A sustainable groundwater management strategy for Pakistan must encompass regulatory measures, promote water-efficient agriculture, invest in research and technology, involve local communities and prioritize infrastructure development. By adopting these measures collectively, Pakistan can secure its water future while preserving the health and integrity of its groundwater resources.
—The writer is politico-strategic analyst based in Islamabad.
Email: riaz.missen@gmail.com
views expressed are writer’s own.
