Addressing Water, Food, and Climate Challenges
Experts have raised concerns that Pakistan cannot achieve true resilience unless water, food, and climate challenges are addressed collectively rather than as separate issues. These insights were shared during the opening session of Pakistan Water Week 2025.
The conference, themed ‘From Scarcity to Sustainability: Collaborative Pathways for Water, Food, and Climate Resilience,’ has brought together scientists, policymakers, academics, and development partners from Pakistan and abroad. The event is organized by the International Water Management Institute (IWMI) Pakistan in partnership with the Pakistan Council of Research in Water Resources (PCRWR), CGIAR Policy Innovations, and CGIAR Climate Action, with support from the EU, FCDO, UNICEF, and ICIMOD.
Key Insights from Leaders
Former irrigation and finance minister Muhammad Mohsin Khan Leghari, who served as chief guest, pointed out that Pakistan is already experiencing the effects of climate change through water-related extremes—from severe droughts to devastating floods. However, he noted that water remains a politically neglected issue in climate discussions. ‘Collaboration is the force multiplier that transforms scarcity into sustainability,’ he emphasized.
In her keynote address, IWMI Deputy Director General Dr. Rachael McDonnell highlighted the urgency of the crisis, mentioning that floods in June claimed over 1,000 lives and impacted nearly seven million people. ‘The water crisis is a climate crisis,’ she said, urging that water be placed at the heart of COP and global climate negotiations. She added that Pakistan’s per capita water availability has dropped to just 900 cubic meters—a stark indicator of the need for immediate action.
Growing Pressure on Water Systems
IWMI Pakistan Director Dr. Mohsin Hafeez warned that the country’s growing population is putting immense pressure on already fragile water systems. With agricultural and urban demands outpacing supply, Pakistan is rapidly transitioning from ‘water-stressed’ to ‘water-scarce.’ He called for innovative, coordinated measures to make water security a top national priority.
The Importance of Collaboration
The discussions underscored the critical need for collaboration across sectors and borders. Experts emphasized that addressing water scarcity requires a holistic approach that integrates food security and climate resilience. This includes developing sustainable agricultural practices, investing in infrastructure, and implementing policies that prioritize long-term water management.
Strategies for Sustainable Solutions
To tackle these challenges, several strategies were proposed:
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Integrated Water Resource Management (IWRM):This approach focuses on managing water resources in a way that balances environmental, economic, and social needs. It encourages participation from all stakeholders, ensuring that decisions are made collaboratively.
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Investment in Technology:Advanced technologies such as remote sensing, data analytics, and smart irrigation systems can help optimize water use and improve efficiency in agriculture.
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Community Engagement:Involving local communities in water management decisions is essential for creating sustainable solutions. This ensures that the needs and perspectives of those most affected are considered.
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Policy Reform:Governments must enact policies that support sustainable water use and protect vulnerable populations. This includes setting clear regulations and providing incentives for conservation efforts.
Conclusion
As Pakistan faces increasing water scarcity, it is clear that a coordinated and collaborative approach is essential. The insights shared during Pakistan Water Week 2025 highlight the urgent need for action and the importance of integrating water, food, and climate resilience into national and global agendas. By working together, stakeholders can create a more sustainable future for all.