Punjab, Pakistan faces severe water crisis challenges

Punjab, a province in Pakistan, is facing a serious water crisis. The region is dealing with water scarcity, dropping groundwater levels, and urban flooding. Rapid urban growth, poor water management, and climate change are making the situation worse. Many cities in Punjab, like Lahore and Rawalpindi, rely heavily on groundwater, which is being depleted quickly. To tackle these issues, Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has assigned the Punjab Municipal Development Fund Company (PMDFC) to lead projects focused on improving water resources and reducing flooding. The PMDFC is working hard to implement sustainable water management strategies. One key initiative includes creating underground water storage tanks in various cities. These tanks help capture rainwater to reduce flooding and provide water for irrigation and road maintenance. Another innovative step taken by the PMDFC is the use of unstealable manhole covers. This change aims to prevent the theft of manhole covers, which creates safety hazards. Additionally, the PMDFC has introduced floating wetlands for wastewater treatment, helping to improve water quality while benefiting the environment. Syed Zahid Aziz is leading these efforts within the PMDFC. His work in modernising water supply systems has gained recognition both nationally and internationally. His leadership has focused on bridging policy and execution gaps in water management. The PMDFC has collaborated with local authorities to enhance drainage systems and increase public awareness about water conservation. While these initiatives are vital, more steps are needed for long-term success. Implementing smart meters can help regulate water use, and rainwater harvesting could be essential in new buildings. Policies to prevent groundwater depletion should also be strengthened. Under Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif’s support, the PMDFC is committed to sustainable development. With ongoing efforts and careful planning, Punjab aims to secure a reliable water supply for future generations.