By S.M. Inam
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s recent emphasis on constructing new dams to prevent floods has revived a long-stalled national debate that cuts across political affiliations and regional divides. His assertion that Pakistan’s economic self-reliance depends heavily on affordable electricity and a robust agricultural sector speaks directly to the deep-rooted challenges that have hindered the country’s development for decades. Water scarcity and chronic energy shortages have consistently acted as barriers to progress, and Sharif’s renewed focus on water infrastructure seeks to address these issues at their core.
During a high-level meeting centered on the Diamer-Bhasha Dam and other vital water resource projects, the prime minister stressed the urgency of completing these initiatives without further delay. He framed these dams not merely as construction projects, but as essential pillars of national security, economic independence, and sustainable energy production. With the country grappling with an energy crisis marked by an overreliance on expensive imported fuels, dams like Diamer-Bhasha hold the promise of significantly increasing water storage capacity and generating cheaper, hydroelectric power. This, in turn, could ease the financial burden on ordinary citizens facing soaring electricity prices, which have become a serious threat to both households and industries.
The stakes are enormous. Agriculture remains the backbone of Pakistan’s economy, demanding a consistent and sufficient supply of water. Yet, the country’s current water reserves barely last a few weeks—a fragile reality that contrasts starkly with other agrarian nations maintaining year-round water storage. This gap in water security puts Pakistan’s agricultural future in jeopardy and makes it all the more urgent to embark on large-scale dam construction. Beyond ensuring steady irrigation, these dams would also play a critical role in mitigating the recurring destruction caused by floods, which have devastated communities and crippled economic activities across the country.
This urgency is compounded by the persistent threat of India’s so-called “water aggression.” Despite the Indus Waters Treaty of 1960—mediated by the World Bank to regulate the sharing of river waters between India and Pakistan—India’s repeated violations and threats to obstruct water flows through upstream dams have left Pakistan in a vulnerable position. The weaponization of water resources has become an extension of the long-standing Kashmir conflict, adding a geopolitical dimension to an already pressing environmental and economic issue. Pakistan’s need to develop a robust internal water security strategy is therefore not just a matter of development but a critical national security imperative.
The long-running controversy surrounding the Kalabagh Dam encapsulates the complexities that have stalled progress on this front. Political rivalries, provincial mistrust, and fears of inequitable water distribution have kept this project dormant for decades. Experts argue that transparent management systems and strong provincial safeguards could help build consensus, but political will has often been lacking. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s recognition of the roles that stable foreign policy, political cohesion, and military leadership can play in fostering a national dialogue hints at a possible breakthrough. If all stakeholders—across provinces and political lines—can commit to a shared vision, the deadlock might finally be overcome.
Moreover, the recent announcement by Punjab’s Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz to reduce electricity tariffs by 30 to 40 percent provides a concrete example of political will focused on public welfare delivering tangible relief. This bold step addresses inflation and energy shortages, raising an important question for the federal government and other provinces: if Punjab can make electricity more affordable, why can’t others? It challenges political leaders nationwide to prioritise practical solutions over partisan divisions, and to work collaboratively for the public good.
Water, however, is not just an economic or political concern; it is a matter of survival. The rivers flowing from the mountains of Kashmir nourish Pakistan’s entire water system, making the resolution of the Kashmir dispute an essential part of any long-term solution. Until this issue is settled in line with United Nations resolutions, India’s unchecked exploitation of these waters will continue to disrupt Pakistan’s water supply, exacerbating both floods and droughts at will. This reality demands a dual strategy: vigilant defence of Pakistan’s water rights on the international stage and decisive internal measures to enhance water storage, conservation, and management.
Water is truly the lifeblood of any nation. Pakistan’s future generations will judge today’s leaders harshly if decisive action is not taken now. The prime minister’s determination is commendable, but words alone cannot stem the tide of crisis. Unity across political parties and provinces is essential, as is the courage to overcome entrenched rivalries and mistrust. This is a pivotal moment for Pakistan—a moment to transform rhetoric into reality through concrete steps that safeguard the country’s water security and, by extension, its economic wellbeing.
Pakistan’s challenges may be daunting, but they are not insurmountable. With visionary leadership and collective resolve, the country can harness its natural resources to secure a more stable and prosperous future. The construction of dams like Diamer-Bhasha must no longer be a subject of endless debate and political brinkmanship but a shared national mission, recognizing that water security is inseparable from national survival. In this endeavor, every province and political faction has a stake, and the time for united action is now.
(The writer is a former government officer and a senior analyst on national and international affairs, can be reached at inam@metro-morning.com)
