Pakistan to bring water from Tajikistan to Baluchistan: President Zardari

By Muhammad Arif

Islamabad: Pakistan is actively exploring options to bring water from Tajikistan to Balochistan, and a feasibility study has been completed with the support of the UAE government, President Asif Ali Zardari announced at the International Conference on “Regional Connectivity & Pakistan: Emerging Opportunities” held at Aiwan-e-Sadr today.

Water Crisis in Balochistan and Cholistan

Balochistan and Cholistan are among the most water-starved regions of Pakistan, with limited and seasonal surface water resources. These areas rely heavily on ancient water supply systems like Karez, which are insufficient to meet the growing population’s needs.

Currently, Balochistan is facing an acute shortage of clean drinking water. Many water filtration plants across the province are out of order, leaving only 25% of residents with access to potable water, according to local sources.

Call for Immediate Government Action

Local residents and officials have urged the government to restore non-functional water plants and improve water supply infrastructure. A government official from Balochistan confirmed that emergency measures are being taken to rehabilitate and restore water filtration plants to ensure access to clean drinking water for the public.

Resource Allocation for Water Projects

The restoration and improvement of water treatment plants require significant resources. The government needs to allocate proper funding to ensure the smooth implementation of these projects in Balochistan.

CPEC and Gwadar Port: Regional Economic Growth

The conference was attended by notable figures, including Chief Minister Balochistan Sarfraz Bugti, Senator Mushahid Hussain Syed (Chairman of the Pakistan-China Institute), and Ahmed Jarwan Al Mohammed (President of the UAE-based Global Council of Tolerance and Peace).

President Zardari emphasized the importance of revitalizing historic trade routes to enhance economic and cultural ties in the region. He reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to regional connectivity and economic cooperation, stating that the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and Gwadar Port would play a pivotal role in boosting trade and prosperity.

Pakistan: A Natural Trade Corridor

President Zardari highlighted Pakistan’s strategic position as a “natural trade corridor,” linking China, Central Asia, and the Middle East. He recalled envisioning Gwadar Port as an economic hub during his years of imprisonment, emphasizing its role in regional connectivity and development.

Balochistan’s Development Plans

Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti praised President Zardari’s contributions in launching and implementing CPEC. He assured that Gwadar Port would be developed into a world-class trade hub with cutting-edge facilities to facilitate global commerce and create economic opportunities for local communities.

• Gwadar Port as a Symbol of Progress: Bugti emphasized that the port represents hope and opportunity for Balochistan’s people.
• Inclusive Development Approach: The Balochistan government is focused on governance, security, social development, and local community empowerment.

CPEC’s Role in Strengthening Regional Ties

Senator Mushahid Hussain Syed highlighted the significance of CPEC in strengthening economic partnerships across the South Asian region. He noted that Pakistan is emerging as a key player in regional trade, with a strong interest in connectivity, cultural exchange, and people-to-people ties.

Strengthening Pak-China Relations

Senator Syed also remarked that President Zardari’s recent visit to China and high-level meetings with Chinese leadership had revitalized Pakistan-China relations. These engagements have set the foundation for CPEC 2.0, a new phase of development under the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).

Global Support for Pakistan’s Connectivity Efforts

Ahmed Jarwan Al Mohammed, President of the UAE-based Global Council of Tolerance and Peace, commended Pakistan’s initiatives for regional connectivity. He stressed the need for international cooperation in promoting tolerance, education, and economic development.