Balochistan, Pakistan’s largest province by area, is facing one of its worst water crises in history due to rapidly depleting groundwater levels. Over the past decade, groundwater in vital areas like Quetta Valley has dropped by as much as 2 to 3 meters annually. This alarming depletion stems from unrestricted drilling of tube wells, poor water resource management, and climate challenges like low rainfall and persistent droughts. Residents and farmers alike struggle to access clean drinking water and sustain crops in a region where evaporation rates far exceed precipitation.
Traditional irrigation systems like the ancient karezes, once vital for water preservation, have collapsed under increased water extraction. Large-scale government projects such as the Kechi Canal remain incomplete, deepening the crisis. Quetta’s water table is now falling by 3 to 5 feet every year, forcing residents to rely on costly and unsustainable water tankers.
Urgent, integrated solutions are needed, such as establishing a single water authority, promoting water-saving technologies, and empowering local communities in water management. Without these actions, Balochistan risks severe environmental degradation, agricultural collapse, and worsening humanitarian conditions. Addressing the water crisis is essential to foster economic opportunity, peace, and development in the province.