Climate Change and Accumulating Water Scarcity in Pakistan: A Case Study of Karachi's Water Infrastructure and Resilience

Abstract

This case study examines Karachi's water shortage, aggravated by climate change and fast development. With a population of nearly 20 million, Karachi is primarily dependent on the Indus River Basin, Keenjhar Lake, and Hub Dam for its water supplies. However, because of the city's expanding population, outdated infrastructure, and unpredictable weather patterns, these sources are under a great deal of strain. The research looks at how these problems have become worse due to climate change, which has caused powerful monsoons, more frequent and severe droughts, and increasing temperatures that have all affected the quantity and quality of water.This water catastrophe has an influence on public health, food security, economic stability, and the environment. The most vulnerable residents of the city are heavily burdened by the rise in waterborne illnesses, the fall in agricultural production, and the increase in water costs. The management of the city's water resources is fraught with difficulties for the Karachi Water and Sewerage Board (KWSB), ranging from antiquated infrastructure to budgetary limitations and ineffective administration.Karachi has responded by putting in place a number of measures to lessen water shortages and improve resilience. These include investigating new freshwater sources, installing water meters, and renovating water pipes. The city is also spending money on cutting-edge technology like desalination facilities and intelligent water management systems. In order to handle the issue, community-based efforts and foreign help have also been essential, although there are still gaps in the construction of infrastructure and the application of policies.This research emphasizes the need to manage water resources in Karachi using a thorough, multifaceted strategy. Advanced water loss control, integrated water resources management (IWRM), public-private partnerships, urban development that is climate resilient, and increased public awareness are some of the policy proposals. Other cities dealing with comparable issues may learn a lot from Karachi's water dilemma.