“National Water Security: Issues and options” organized at Center for Advanced Studies (CAS) at UAF. The event was arranged by department of irrigation and drainage, Faculty of Agriculture Engineering.

FAISALABAD Oct 08: Water scarcity is posing a serious threat to food security, environmental sustainability and making it difficult to meet the needs of ever increasing population of the country. It was stated by the speakers at a seminar on “National Water Security: Issues and options” organized at Center for Advanced Studies (CAS) at UAF. The event was arranged by department of irrigation and drainage, Faculty of Agriculture Engineering. Addressing the gathering Dr Tariq Rana serving with the Australian Government's Office of the Inspector General of Water Compliance as Director of Water Resource Plan Compliance, as the keynote speaker of this seminar said that Sustainable Development Goal 6 seeks to ensure the availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all. He said water is the key driver of all economic and social development. He added water also has a deep function in maintaining the integrity of the natural environment. If we are to achieve water security, protect vulnerable water systems, mitigate the impacts of water-related hazards such as floods and droughts, safeguard access to water, functions and services, and manage water resources in an integrated and equitable manner. Dean Agriculture Engineering Dr Anjum Munir said that Declining groundwater levels, deteriorating water quality, hydro-climatic hazards in terms of floods and droughts, and transboundary water concerns demand urgent attention. To address these challenges, it is important to explore viable options for sustainable water management. Dr Rai Niaz, former Vice Chancellor Arid Agriculture University said that growing population, rapid urbanization, climate change, and inefficient water use practices are intensifying the pressure on already scarce water resources. Dean Agriculture Dr Ghulam Murtaza said that the water scarcity was complex issue for which we have to adopt the water saving methods. Dr Asif Kamran said that policy interventions will help address the issue. Dr Adnan Shahid said that he Department of Irrigation & Drainage, Faculty of Agricultural Engineering and Technology, is committed to advancing solutions for the country's water challenges. As part of these efforts.