Looming water crisis in Pakistan: Challenges and options in a climate-changed world

Abstract

The looming water crisis reaching an alarming level in Pakistan represents every sign that it is on its way to a severe water shortage. Climate change has impacted the behavior of glaciers, greenhouse gas emissions, eco-degradation of watersheds, and unpredictability of weather are affecting the water resources in Pakistan. Pakistan is ranked among the most water-stressed countries globally. The per capita annual accessibility of water has decreased from 5140 m3 in 1950 to 1000 m3 now. It is a fast-impending water shortage. The lack of effective resource management and planning of the government aggravated the crisis. This is a literature review-based study. The study aims to highlight and explore the causes and strategies to face the looming water crisis in Pakistan. The research revolves around the following questions, what are the causes of the looming water crisis in Pakistan? and How can Pakistan deal effectively with its water scarcity? The data is of a secondary nature. The findings emphasize the options of implementation of adaptation and mitigation strategies to face the challenges of water scarcity.