Pakistan Water Week Concludes with Call for Collective Action
The fifth Pakistan Water Week came to a close in Islamabad on Friday, highlighting the urgent need for collective action and sustained partnerships to address the country’s growing water and climate challenges. The event, which spanned five days, brought together scientists, policymakers, and representatives from civil society to explore innovative solutions aimed at transitioning from water scarcity to sustainability.
Organized by the International Water Management Institute (IWMI) Pakistan in collaboration with the Pakistan Council of Research in Water Resources (PCRWR), CGIAR Policy Innovations, and CGIAR Climate Action, the conference received support from several international organizations, including the European Union (EU), the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), UNICEF, and the International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD).
A Focus on Water as a Critical Resource
At the closing ceremony, Dr Shezra Mansab Ali Khan Kharal, Minister of State for Climate Change and Environmental Coordination, emphasized the central role of water in Pakistan’s food security, energy stability, and environmental health. However, she warned that water remains one of the most vulnerable resources due to the impacts of climate change.
She highlighted this year’s theme, “From Scarcity to Sustainability: Collaborative Pathways for Water, Food, and Climate Resilience,” as a reflection of the pressing need to rethink how Pakistan manages its water resources. This call to action underscores the importance of reimagining policies and practices to ensure long-term water security.
Government Initiatives and Commitments
Dr Shezra outlined several key government initiatives aimed at addressing these challenges. These include the completion of the National Adaptation Plan and the National Climate Finance Strategy, both of which seek to mobilize investments in climate-smart irrigation, renewable energy, and integrated water management systems.
In addition, the government has reaffirmed its commitment to nature-based solutions, such as watershed restoration, mangrove conservation, and ecosystem-based flood control. These efforts align with the Prime Minister’s vision for building a climate-resilient Pakistan.
Empowering Youth and Women
The minister also recognized the contributions of youth innovators who showcased smart irrigation and digital water monitoring technologies during the event. She emphasized that empowering young people and women is essential for driving long-term change and fostering innovation in water management.
Dr Shezra commended IWMI and PCRWR for their leadership in the sector and expressed gratitude to international partners, including the FCDO, GIZ, UNICEF, ACIAR, FAO, World Bank, EU, and ADB, for their support in strengthening Pakistan’s water and climate resilience efforts.
WRAP Programme as a Model for Success
She referenced the FCDO-funded WRAP Programme, implemented by IWMI, as an example of how research can be translated into actionable solutions. Dr Shezra urged future Water Weeks to focus on measurable outcomes and practical results, emphasizing the need for stronger collaboration between the government and international partners to secure Pakistan’s water future.
Diverse Discussions and Global Engagement
The conference featured 24 panel discussions, including a high-level dialogue ahead of COP30 in Brazil. Topics covered a wide range of issues, such as climate communication, smart solar irrigation, groundwater governance, water accounting, and climate-resilient agriculture. These discussions provided a platform for experts to exchange ideas and strategies for sustainable water management.
Looking Ahead
As Pakistan continues to face increasing water and climate challenges, events like the Pakistan Water Week play a crucial role in fostering dialogue, collaboration, and innovation. The insights and commitments made during this year’s conference will undoubtedly shape the future of water management in the country.