Water Management and Reservoirs in Pakistan: An Analysis of Legal Framework and Contemporary Challenges

Abstract

Need of water is a collective need for every human being. In Pakistan, as per Indus River System Authority (IRSA), total river flows at rim stations were recorded at 486,600 cusecs in the year 2018 compared to total outflows of 258,800 cusecs. All main rivers i.e., Indus, Jhelum, Chenab, Ravi and Sutlej rivers have a normal flow. The conservation level at Tarbela and Mangla was reported 1495.27 feet and 1141.50 feet, respectively. The goal of this study was to discuss laws and situation of shortage of water reservoirs in Pakistan along-with explaining the existing water reservoirs and sources in the country. It also analyses the existing legal framework on the subject to find out loopholes (if any). The methodology used in this study is qualitative with an analytical method. This study examines and analyses relevant laws and situation of shortage of water and highlights contemporary challenges for access to water in Pakistan. It also argues on the right to clean water as a basic human right that needs special attention and the need to enhance the storage capacity of water by constructing Dams or large storage places to overcome water shortage in Pakistan.