Pakistan’s Water Crisis Persists as Majority Still Lack Safe Drinking Water: ADB
More than 80 percent of Pakistan’s population still does not have access to safe drinking water, according to new assessments from the Asian Development Bank, underscoring the severity and urgency of the country’s deepening water crisis. The report warns that without immediate institutional strengthening and long-term investment, Pakistan’s water security will continue to deteriorate.
Despite select improvements in a few regions, the country’s overall water supply remains fragile. Experts note that climate pressures, rapid population growth, and unsustainable groundwater extraction are placing unprecedented stress on already-limited water resources. Contamination levels are rising as aging infrastructure fails to keep pace with demand.
Government and development partners have initiated various projects aimed at expanding clean water availability, improving filtration systems, and upgrading supply networks. These efforts have delivered localized progress but have not yet translated into consistent, nationwide access.
Water specialists argue that Pakistan must adopt more robust management practices, develop resilient infrastructure, and enforce stricter regulations on groundwater usage to prevent further decline. They emphasize that unless long-term planning replaces short-term fixes, millions will remain vulnerable to waterborne diseases, economic losses, and increasing water scarcity.
