Pakistan Wastes 35M Acre-Feet of Rainwater Yearly

Pakistan is facing a severe water crisis, but it wastes over 35 million acre-feet of rainfall annually—enough to recharge the country's largest dams multiple times. Despite heavy rainfalls, lack of adequate storage systems and poor water management cause a huge amount of waste. Instead of being harvested for irrigation, industrial, or domestic use, a major part of the water flows into the sea or gets evaporated. This inefficiency causes shortages of water, affecting millions who live off limited resources for their everyday survival. With climate change resulting in unpredictable weather conditions, rainwater saving has become more important than ever. The lack of sufficient dams and reservoirs further exacerbates the situation, rendering Pakistan vulnerable to floods and droughts. During heavy rain, excess water overflows in cities and agricultural lands instead of being harvested for future use. At the same time, prolonged droughts deplete reservoirs, threatening food security and economic stability. Countries with similar rainfall patterns have embraced rainwater harvesting practices, but Pakistan has been slow to adopt sustainable measures.

 Investing in enhanced water conservation techniques, including small reservoirs and city rainwater harvesting, could ease these problems. To combat this crisis requires quick policy adjustments, improved infrastructure, and higher levels of public knowledge. Water preservation schemes and making farmers and industrialists switch over to proper storage and irrigation are essential interventions undertaken by the government. Rainwater harvesting facilities would have to find their way into urban planning. Otherwise, there will be little left in years to come from a rapidly approaching, extremely tough water crisis scenario in Pakistan. By efficiently harvesting rainwater, the country can secure its future water supply, boost agricultural output, and safeguard millions from the stark effects of water scarcity.