Expert Warns: Severe Irrigation Water Shortages to Threaten Yields in Pakistan

Severe irrigation water shortages are rapidly emerging as a major threat to Pakistan’s agricultural sector. As climate change intensifies and water mismanagement continues, experts are warning of devastating consequences for food security and the livelihoods of millions of farmers.

Severe Irrigation Water Shortages: A Growing Crisis

The backbone of Pakistan‘s economy — agriculture — is under siege from a worsening water crisis. A mix of climate change, unchecked population growth, and mismanagement of natural resources has driven the country toward an alarming water deficit.

Key contributing factors include:

• Rapid population growth increasing water demand

• Decline in freshwater availability

• Below-average rainfall and snowfall

• Dry weather forecast for summer

• Outdated irrigation systems and water wastage

Expert Insights: Khan Faraz Sounds the Alarm

In a candid interview with The News, Khan Faraz, former Secretary of the Pakistan Tobacco Board (PTB) and an agricultural expert, emphasized the dire implications of the water crisis.

“The immense population growth has placed pressure on natural resources, especially water, which is essential for agriculture, industry, and domestic use,” Faraz stated.

He noted that agriculture uses 97% of Pakistan’s freshwater resources, yet inefficient practices and outdated infrastructure mean much of this precious resource is wasted.

Pakistan’s Agricultural Backbone Under Threat

Agriculture contributes 23% to the national GDP and employs over 42% of the workforce. However, the severe irrigation water shortages now threaten staple crops and cash crops alike.

Faraz highlighted that:

• Wheat harvesting is currently underway.

• Preparations for summer crops — such as cotton, rice, and sugarcane — are beginning.

• These crops are highly water-dependent, and shortages will critically reduce yields.

Water Shortfall: The Grim Forecast for 2025

According to recent estimates and reports from IRSA (Indus River System Authority), Pakistan is expected to face a 43% water shortfall in April 2025.

This shortfall is being attributed to:

• Below-normal snowfall in northern areas

• Decreasing river inflows

• Persistent dry spells and elevated temperatures

The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) confirmed that the country’s main reservoirs are nearing dead levels, posing a critical risk to upcoming crops.

Critical Impact on Punjab and Sindh Farmers

Punjab and Sindh — the agricultural heartlands of Pakistan — are already experiencing the effects of dwindling water levels.

Farmers in these regions face:

• Delays in planting summer crops

• Reduced irrigation schedules

• Poor crop health and lower yield quality

• Increased financial burdens due to alternative water sourcing

Faraz warns,

“Farmers are bracing for losses. If this continues, the food supply chain will weaken, and prices will rise dramatically.”

Recommendations for Immediate Action

To combat severe irrigation water shortages and secure future yields, experts suggest the following steps:

Water Management Reforms

• Introduce efficient irrigation methods like drip and sprinkler systems.

• Enforce regulations against illegal water extraction.

• Modernize canal infrastructure to prevent leakage and evaporation.

Water Harvesting and Storage

• Promote rainwater harvesting in urban and rural areas.

• Expand small and medium-sized dams for local water retention.

Farmer Education & Incentives

• Launch awareness programs on water conservation.

• Offer subsidies for water-saving technologies.

Climate-Resilient Agriculture

• Develop drought-tolerant crop varieties.

• Shift cropping patterns based on water availability forecasts.

Conclusion and Way Forward

Severe irrigation water shortages are no longer a distant threat but a current reality with devastating consequences. Khan Faraz’s warning serves as a wake-up call for policymakers, agricultural planners, and farmers alike.

To secure Pakistan’s future:

• Investment in water conservation is non-negotiable.

• Climate-adaptive strategies must be prioritized.

• Public and private sectors must work together to implement sustainable solutions.

As the crisis deepens, urgent and collective action is needed to ensure that Pakistan’s fertile lands continue to feed its people and support its economy.

Internal Links

• How Climate Change Is Affecting Pakistan’s Agriculture

• Top Water Conservation Methods for Farmers

• Guide to Drought-Resistant Crops in Pakistan

External Links

• IRSA – Indus River System Authority

• Pakistan Meteorological Department

• UN FAO: Water Use in Agriculture