THE water crises in Quetta and Islamabad have reached critical levels, prompting urgent calls for action. As Quetta teeters on the brink of becoming a “ghost city” and Islamabad struggles with contaminated water supplies, the public health and urban sustainability of these cities are in jeopardy. The ramifications of inaction are dire—not just for the present, but for generations to come.
Quetta’s alarming situation is stark. Over the past decade, the city has seen its water table plummet by an astonishing 300 feet, with a further annual decline of nearly 30 feet. The stark warning from Syed Ali Murtaza, Secretary of Water Resources, paints a grim picture of a future where basic water needs may go unmet. Simultaneously, Islamabad faces its own water-related challenges. Severe contamination of the drinking water supply raises critical public health concerns, particularly the risk of “blue-baby syndrome” due to elevated nitrates. This underscores a dual crisis: not only is there a scarcity of clean water, but the water that is available poses significant health risks. In the light of these challenges, it is imperative that we consider both immediate and long-term solutions. While Secretary Murtaza argues that halting groundwater extraction in Quetta is the only viable solution, we must also explore complementary measures to safeguard our water resources. We must enforce regulations that limit the use of deep wells and promote sustainable water practices. Educating the public about the importance of water conservation is essential. Campaigns should emphasize responsible water use, encouraging communities to adopt practices that minimize wastage. While the construction of small dams and canals may not solve all issues, they can play a role in capturing and managing rainwater. Enhanced infrastructure can facilitate better water storage and distribution, providing temporary relief while broader strategies are developed. Encouraging the adoption of rainwater harvesting systems in both urban and rural areas can provide a supplementary source of water. A holistic approach to water management is essential, involving collaboration among various stakeholders—government, NGOs and local communities—to develop strategies that balance water supply and demand.
