ISLAMABAD, Dec 4: Adviser to the Prime Minister on National Security and Foreign Affairs Sartaj Aziz said on Wednesday that the presence of Indian forces on Siachen glacier is a serious environmental threat to Pakistan.

BBC Urdu and DawnNews and other Pakistani TV channels quoted Mr Aziz as saying in a radio interview that while Pakistan faced water shortage, Indian troops were damaging on a daily basis the environment of Siachen, one of the largest sources of water for Pakistanis.

He termed the presence of Indian forces on Siachen a big issue and urged New Delhi to resolve it on a priority basis by pulling out its troops from the area.

Mr Aziz said that wastes disposed of by thousands of Indian soldiers were threatening the existence of the glacier.

According to environmentalists, glacial retreat on Himalayas and Karakorum ranges had accelerated during recent years because of human presence there.

The adviser said both countries were engaged in efforts to resolve outstanding water issues through multiple channels, including Pakistan-India composite dialogue and Indus Water Commission.

He said implications of water scarcity were grave in view of climate change.

Mr Aziz stressed the need for judicious use of water in Pakistan, its conservation and building new reservoirs.

Recently, the Senate set up a committee to deliberate various dimensions of water-related issues and prepare recommendations.

The adviser said the Planning Commission’s 2025 Vision would concentrate on water resources and prepare a comprehensive sustainable development strategy while keeping in view the country’s water scarcity.

He hoped for positive results of the Afghan reconciliation process because international community was committed to establishing peace in that country.