Islamabad: The Senate Standing Committee on Water Resources convened at Parliament House to evaluate the implementation of previous recommendations, analyze allocations in the Public Sector Development Programme (PSDP) for the water sector, and receive an in-depth briefing on the Water and Power Development Authority’s (WAPDA) performance and mandate. The committee, chaired by Senator Jam Saifullah Khan, expressed concerns regarding slow compliance with its directives and called for timely action by relevant organizations.
According to Senate of Pakistan, the committee was informed about ongoing efforts to monitor river encroachments using satellite imagery. However, progress was noted to be slow, with Khyber Pakhtunkhwa reporting 227 encroachment points but imagery obtained for only 18 locations. Punjab reported 2,737 points. WAPDA assured the committee that provincial authorities are actively working to remove encroachments via district administrations.
Senator Jam Saifullah Khan highlighted the importance of utilizing modern technology for flood forecasting and river management, proposing a dedicated meeting on these technologies and their applications. The committee plans to invite representatives from various governmental and international bodies for discussions on the Indus Waters Treaty and national water security.
The committee also addressed staffing issues within the Federal Flood Commission, urging the Establishment Division to expedite the issuance of a No Objection Certificate needed to fill vacant positions. Additionally, discussions on groundwater depletion revealed declining levels in several Punjab districts, prompting calls for the adoption of international practices in groundwater conservation and irrigation.
Concerns about encroachments along the River Ravi were raised, with a directive for detailed information to be submitted at a future meeting. The committee reviewed provincial floodplain zoning systems and requested maps for further analysis.
Sindh authorities reported a high salinity level in groundwater, while Balochistan officials outlined a significant groundwater deficit. The committee was informed of the pressing water crisis in Pakistan, highlighted by the stalled Nai Gaj Dam Project, which has faced legal and financial challenges.
Updates on major water projects and infrastructure issues were provided, including progress on the Neelum-Jhelum Hydropower Project. The committee stressed the need for a transparent inquiry into tunnel failures and cost escalations.
PSDP allocations were reviewed, with the committee expressing concern over funding shortfalls and their potential impact on project completion. The meeting concluded with a directive to examine operational challenges of the Right Bank Outfall Drain projects in a separate session.