Pakistan is confronting a severe water crisis, with the Asian Development Bank reporting that more than 80 percent of the population lacks access to safe and clean drinking water. The crisis is driven by a combination of rapid population growth, climate change, inefficient water management, and over-extraction of groundwater, leading to shortages, contamination, and the spread of waterborne diseases.
Although certain rural and urban areas have seen improvements in water security, significant gaps remain in infrastructure, governance, and service delivery. Many water supply systems are outdated, poorly maintained, or insufficient to meet growing demand, while regulatory and institutional frameworks often fail to enforce proper management and conservation practices.
Experts emphasize that addressing Pakistan’s water challenges requires urgent action, including stronger coordination between federal and provincial water authorities, substantial investment in modern infrastructure, and effective enforcement of policies to protect water resources. Sustainable water management, equitable distribution, and improved access to safe drinking water are essential to prevent further public health risks and to support the country’s long-term economic and social development.
