Govt Sets Up Task Force to Combat Water Crisis Impacting Rabi, Kharif Crops

The federal government has established a high-level task-force to address worsening water scarcity and its impact on Pakistan’s critical Rabi and Kharif crops. The body, co-chaired by Federal Minister for Climate Change Dr. Musadik Malik and Federal Minister for Water Resources Muhammad Moeen Wattoo, held its first meeting in Islamabad on Thursday to outline urgent measures. The task-force discussed strategies including rainwater harvesting, reducing water wastage, and pilot programs for drought-hit farmers. International donor engagement was also highlighted as vital for long-term solutions. “Our core objective is to develop practical, forward-looking measures to counter both current and future water shortages,” said Dr. Malik. He stressed the need to monitor domestic and cross-border water flows, warning that regional uncertainties could disrupt supplies. The ministers reviewed agricultural and household water demand, causes of recurring shortages, and annual availability fluctuations. The task-force was instructed to analyze 40 years of hydrological data to identify trends and guide policy. “Understanding historical patterns is essential to mitigate risks,” noted Malik, emphasizing preparedness for potential cross-border flow disruptions. Water scarcity poses a severe threat to Pakistan’s food security and economy, with agriculture accounting for 90 percent of freshwater use. The task-force’s findings could shape national water conservation and climate adaptation strategies.