ISLAMABAD: Federal Minister for Water Resources Mian Muhammad Mueen Wattoo on Tuesday said increasing Pakistan’s water storage capacity has become an urgent national priority, stressing that major projects such as the Diamer-Bhasha Dam will play a key role in improving water security.
Speaking at a joint media briefing during a visit to the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) headquarters alongside other federal ministers, Wattoo said Pakistan is facing the dual challenge of floods and water scarcity, while food security also remains a major concern.
He said these challenges are closely linked and require effective management of the country’s water resources through increased storage capacity and better planning.
Highlighting ongoing water infrastructure projects, the minister said the Diamer-Bhasha Dam will have the capacity to store 6.4 million acre-feet of water, making it one of Pakistan’s most important water storage projects.
He added that the Dasu Hydropower Project is another key national project, while the Mohmand Dam will be able to store nearly one million acre-feet of water upon completion.
According to the minister, these projects will significantly improve the country’s ability to store water, strengthen water supplies, and support long-term water and food security.
Mueen Wattoo also highlighted the importance of the K-IV water supply project for Karachi, saying it is expected to be completed by the end of this year or early next year. Once operational, the project will help improve the supply of drinking water to the country’s largest city.
He reiterated that expanding water storage infrastructure is essential for managing climate-related challenges, ensuring sustainable water availability, and supporting Pakistan’s future development.
