Water Paradox

The article highlights the global water crisis exacerbated by climate change, as 2023 became the driest year for rivers in over 30 years. While some regions face severe droughts, others suffer from catastrophic floods, both consequences of an increasingly erratic hydrological cycle. The article discusses the situation in Pakistan, where monsoon flooding affects large areas while regions like Balochistan and Sindh experience droughts. The melting of glaciers threatens the water supply in the Indus Basin, leading to agricultural instability. The article suggests that countries must prioritize water management, invest in infrastructure to handle extreme weather, and adopt climate mitigation strategies to avert disaster.

Overview

This article provides an in-depth look at the paradox of water crises—some regions face severe droughts while others suffer from floods. It highlights how climate change has disrupted the global hydrological cycle and how this impacts agriculture, economies, and human populations. For Pakistan, the situation is dire, as the country is simultaneously experiencing floods and droughts. The melting glaciers, which feed Pakistan’s major rivers, present a long-term challenge to water availability. The article urges nations to take proactive steps toward managing water resources, improving infrastructure, and collaborating globally on data-sharing for better resource management.

NOTES

1. Environmental Science: Discusses the global water crisis and climate change’s impact on the hydrological cycle.

2. Pakistan Affairs: Focuses on Pakistan’s water challenges, particularly in the Indus Basin, and highlights regional issues like floods and droughts.

3. Current Affairs: Covers international efforts for water conservation and the role of global organizations like the UN in addressing water-related Sustainable Development Goals (SDG-6).

This article relates to the CSS syllabus in areas like

– Environmental Science: Understanding the global water crisis and the role of climate change in exacerbating it. 

– Pakistan Affairs: Insights into Pakistan’s water management challenges and the risks posed by reliance on glacial meltwater and unsustainable irrigation. 

– Current Affairs: Global water governance and efforts to address SDG-6.

Notes for Beginners with Examples

1. Water Crisis: The article highlights how different parts of the world are facing severe water shortages, with Pakistan being a prime example. 

   Example: Pakistan’s reliance on glacial meltwater for agriculture shows how climate change threatens its water supply. 

2. Climate Change and Water: The erratic rainfall patterns are a result of climate change, leading to both droughts and floods in different regions. 

   Example: Droughts in Balochistan contrast with the floods in other parts of Pakistan, showing the complexity of the water crisis. 

Facts and Figures

– 2023 was recorded as the driest year for rivers in over three decades. 

– Pakistan relies heavily on irrigation from glacial meltwater, which is becoming unsustainable due to rising temperatures. 

– The World Meteorological Organisation (WMO) links the water crisis to climate change and stresses improved monitoring and resource management.

To wrap up, the article presents a clear picture of the global water crisis, emphasizing how Pakistan is caught between the extremes of flooding and drought. For CSS/PMS aspirants, understanding the complexities of water management and its ties to climate change is important. The article provides insights into the challenges faced by Pakistan and the global community in addressing water scarcity and the need for collective action.

Difficult Words and Meanings – Synonyms and Antonyms