“Glacier Preservation and Judicious Use of Water”

FAISALABAD Apr 28: Around half of the world population, around 4 billion people, experience severe water scarcity for at least part of the year, thanks to accelerating impacts of climate changes and altered rainfall patterns. It is the need of the hour to make foolproof arrangements for glacier preservation and encourage rational usage of water among the masses. It was said by the speakers at a national seminar on “Glacier Preservation and Judicious Use of Water” organized by the Department of Irrigation and Drainage, Faculty of Agriculture Engineering & Technology, University of Agriculture Faisalabad (UAF). Speaking at the event, former Vice Chancellor, Arid Agriculture University Rawalpindi, Dr Rai Niaz Ahmad called for replacing traditional methods of water management with modern ones including bed plantation, sprinkle, drip irrigation and others that will save the water manifold. Dean Faculty of Agricultural Engineering and Technology UAF Prof Dr Anjum Munir emphasized the importance of safeguarding water resources for the survival and prosperity of future generations. He highlighted that water is not merely a resource but the foundation of sustainable agriculture, food security and economic development. He said that only bed plantation saves 50 percent of water while drip, sprinkle and other high efficient techniques save the water upto 80 percent . Dr Farrukh Bashir Director R&D Division Islamabad urged the academic community, industry and other stakeholders to work hand-in-hand to develop research-driven solutions for water conservation and management. Chairman Irrigation and Drainage Dr Adnan Shahid emphasized that sustainable water management is essential not only for agriculture but for the overall stability of the country’s economy and environment. He said that in the face of rapid glacier melting, changing rainfall patterns and increasing demand for water resources, modern irrigation techniques and the efficient use of technology must be promoted. Scientific Officer PARC Dr Muhammad Khalid emphasized the need to modernize water monitoring infrastructure and promote efficient irrigation practices. He urged all stakeholders to work collectively to safeguard the country’s vital water assets for future sustainability. Librarian Umar Farooq said that Water is an important element for sustainable agriculture and its quantity and quality are serious issues to be considered. Glaciers act as natural reservoirs, providing a critical buffer to sustain water supplies for both drinking and agricultural uses. He also shed light on use of digital Library resources on water.