GWADAR, the centerpiece of China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, is a thirsty city situated on the south-western tip of Makran coast. The town is facing a population influx, industrialisation and infrastructure works. As such there is an ever-growing need for water.

The requirement today is around six million gallons. The only water source is the Ankara dam built in 1995. The population then was a mere 20,000, which has crossed over 100,000 and is rising. The dam has been dysfunctional and ceased to operate due to no rain, silt accumulation and improper maintenance.

Over the past decade, the region has experienced a very low rainfall. Changing climatic trends expect a downward spiral of rainfall in days to come. Climatic studies suggest that regions located on a declining rainfall belt need to diversify their water sources and subsequently bank on sources other than rainfall.

Desalination plants are the best source of water for coastal cities like Gwadar. A plant with a capacity of a million gallons has been set up in the port, but this is insufficient as the growing needs demand more water treatment plants. One hopes the provincial and federal governments look into the matter and treat the matter as urgent.

Majid Essa Ali

Gwadar

Published in Dawn, April 29th, 2018