Water crisis in KP
Sabir Hussain
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa is known for its natural beauty and abundant water resources. However, these precious rivers – Swat, Kabul and Indus – are now heavily polluted due to unchecked waste disposal. Industrial waste, untreated sewage and agricultural runoff are contaminating these water bodies, putting both people and nature at risk. If this issue is not addressed urgently, the consequences will be severe for public health, environment, and economy.
One of the biggest reasons behind water pollution in KP is poor waste management. Many industries dump toxic chemicals directly into rivers without proper treatment. At the same time, cities and villages lack proper sewage systems, allowing dirty water to flow untreated into streams and rivers. Harmful substances such as heavy metals, chemicals and bacteria make their way into drinking water, irrigation channels and fish habitats, creating widespread contamination.
Polluted water is a serious health hazard. Many wells and tubewells in KP rely on river water, increasing their risk of diseases like cholera, hepatitis A and diarrhea. Hospitals are already struggling to handle the growing number of waterborne illnesses. Meanwhile, fish and other aquatic life are dying due to toxic waste and reduced oxygen levels in rivers. This also affects the livelihoods of fishermen and communities that depend on river resources.
The KP government has introduced laws such as the Environmental Protection Act (2014) and the Water Act (2020) to control pollution. However, enforcing these laws remains a major challenge. Many industries continue to operate without proper waste treatment facilities, and there is little accountability. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) must be strengthened to monitor pollution and take strict action against violators. Regular testing of water quality should also be made mandatory.
Solving this crisis requires the combined efforts of the government, industry and public. Industrial units must be prepared to treat their waste before releasing it into water bodies. The government should offer incentives for businesses that adopt eco-friendly practices and impose fines on those that do not comply. At the same time, the public must be educated about proper waste disposal, reducing plastic use and adopting sustainable farming methods. Schools and community programs should include environmental education to spread awareness.
It is worth to mention here that water is essential for life, and its protection should be a top priority. If action is not taken now, the situation will worsen, leading to irreversible damage. The people of KP must demand better policies, stronger enforcement of laws, and greater public participation in keeping the rivers clean. Everyone – government, businesses and individuals – has a role to play in ensuring clean and safe water for the future generations.
The writer is a senior journalist, and Editor S&T at Sunrise Today, based in Islamabad. He covers science and technology, climate change, environmental issues, energy crisis, public health, education, Afghan refugees, and national and international affairs. He may be reached on X: @EngSabirHussain, or by email: lectureonline14@gmail.com.
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