On July 9, 2024, on behalf of the UNESCO Chair on Knowledge Systems for Integrated Water Resources Management (IWRM) at CUI Wah Campus, the members Engr. Sarmad Manzoor and Engr. Waleed Tariq from the Department of Civil Engineering attended the event jointly organized by the Pakistan Council of Research in Water Resources (PCRWR) and partners to raise the importance of World Water Day -2024 under this year's theme "Water for Prosperity and Peace."
The event featured the Launch of the United Nations World Water Development Report 2024, a Panel Discussion, and an interactive Q&A Session.
Dr. Hifza Rasheed, Director General PCRWR, delivered the welcoming address, emphasizing the crucial role of shared water resources in fostering cooperation between nations and regions. She highlighted PCRWR's initiatives to combat water wastage. Subsequent remarks were given by Mr. Jawed Ali Khan from HPM, UN-Habitat, Prof. Seyed Komail Tayebi, President of the ECO Science Foundation, and Officer-In-charge from the UNESCO Islamabad, Mr. Kar Hung Antony Tam, stressing the significance of World Water Day in raising awareness about water challenges. He also highlighted UNESCO's collaborative efforts with PCRWR, including the inscription of the Karez System Cultural Landscape (KSCL) in the World Heritage List to promote trust and resolve water-related conflicts.
The keynote speech was delivered by the Former Chief Engineer, Engr. Nssir Gafoor from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Irrigation Department. In a roundtable panel discussion experts including Mr. Nasir Ghafoor, Dr. Muhammad Riaz, Ms. Saiqa Imran, Dr. Muhammad Waseem, Mr. Zamir Ahmad Soomro, Mr. Khalil Raza, and Mr. Raza Narejo underscored the urgency of addressing water scarcity, promoting conservation practices, and enhancing Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) facilities. They advocated trust-building through data sharing and adoption of Integrated Water Resources Management (IWRM) strategies to ensure sustainable and equitable water use across Pakistan.
In concluding remarks, distinguished speakers highlighted current challenges and opportunities in the water sector, calling for innovative solutions, improved wastewater management, and actions to mitigate climate impacts and water mismanagement. The event's key takeaways will guide future initiatives and research, sustainable practices in Pakistan contributing to progress towards a water-secure future for all.
