POTABLE water has become something of a luxury for many Karachiites these days. Many localities go for weeks without fresh water supply. Indeed, potable water is becoming an increasingly rare, precious resource in this part of the world. A United Nations reports states only 2.5 per cent of all the water on earth is fit for human consumption, and a meagre one per cent is accessible.

In view of these harsh facts and Karachi’s acute water crisis, the non-chalant attitude of the water board officials and Karachiites towards water conservation is very dismal.

As a citizen it pains me to see potable water being wasted in massive quantities owing to leaking water lines in many areas.

The outdated and crumbling water infrastructure is further exacerbated by the tanker mafia, which siphons off water to sell at exorbitant prices.

Even those homes which do get regular water supply seem to be least bothered about responsible usage, as overflowing water tanks and washing driveways and cars are a common sight in some neighbourhoods.

A multi-pronged approach is required to address this critical issue at the earliest.

Muhammad Ali
Karachi

Published in Dawn, March 27th, 2019