Muhammad Saleem

Rainwater and river runoff harvesting can boost the agriculture sector of Pakistan, improve soil health, and recharge groundwater, Dr. Asif Ali from the University of Agriculture, Faisalabad, told WealthPK. He explained that climate change is severely impacting Pakistan, particularly the agriculture sector, causing unexpected rains that damage fertile lands. This decline in production has put farmers in a precarious financial situation, endangering both agriculture and growers. As an agricultural country, Pakistan must take measures to protect its lands and conserve rainwater. “It is predicted that Pakistan will face water shortages in the future. Therefore, dams must be built to store rainwater and prevent flooding,” he stated. “To date, we have not taken significant steps to address the challenges affecting every segment of society.

Policymakers are merely making empty promises, while the reality is starkly different,” he added. Dr. Ali emphasized the importance of rainwater harvesting, especially in arid and semi-arid regions experiencing water scarcity. By using harvested rainwater, Pakistan could properly irrigate these areas, increasing production and improving farmers' financial stability. The collected rainwater would enhance soil moisture, recharge groundwater, and protect farmers from droughts. He noted that stored rainwater would also alleviate farmers’ concerns about future water shortages. The farming community fears an uncertain future due to climate change, water scarcity, and inadequate policies.

Regarding river runoff management, Dr. Ali suggested constructing small dams and water storage tanks. Such facilities would boost the agriculture sector, reduce soil erosion, regulate water flow, and ensure a steady water supply. “We need sustainable water management to support our agriculture sector and increase production, which requires efficient river flow and rainwater utilization,” he added. Zahid Hussain, a farmer, told WealthPK that while they had heard of rainwater harvesting, they lacked knowledge on its implementation. He lamented that, unlike global agricultural practices adapting to emerging challenges, Pakistani farmers remain stuck with outdated methods. An expert from the University of Agriculture Faisalabad had advised him to build a small rainwater harvesting pond, which would protect his crops and improve soil and irrigation capacity.

Dr. Ali also discussed the challenges of implementing river runoff management projects and rainwater harvesting, citing a lack of funds and leadership’s indifference. “Construction requires substantial funds, but the country’s economy relies heavily on the International Monetary Fund (IMF). Additionally, we have failed to educate our farmers about the importance of rainwater harvesting,” he said. Zahid Hussain called on the government to ensure farmers' easy access to affordable technologies and provide modern training in water management. He urged the government to offer incentives to farmers willing to adopt sustainable practices, similar to those provided to the industrial sector.

Credit: INP-WealthPk