Water Festival and Technology Fair at Pakistan Water Week 2023

The Pakistan Water Week 2023 kicked off with an auspicious inauguration ceremony of Water Festival and Technology Fair Thursday, in Islamabad, reported 24NewsHD TV channel.

Organized by the Pakistan Council of Research in Water Resources (PCRWR), in collaboration with IWMI Pakistan and UNICEF and various partner organizations, the event aims to address the critical challenges surrounding water resources and promote innovative solutions in the field of water and climate.

The inauguration ceremony, graced by the esteemed presence of Mr. Ahmad Irfan Aslam, care-taker Federal Minister for Water Resources, marked the commencement of an eventful week dedicated to water awareness, research, and technological advancements. Minister Aslam inaugurated the festival, symbolizing the government's commitment to addressing the pressing water issues faced by the nation.

The Technology Fair featured stalls set up by leading research and development organizations in the water sector and universities. Minister Aslam took the time to visit each stall, where representatives from PCRWR, IWMI, UNICEF, Islamic Relief, WWF and other international agencies, academia, and industry provided detailed briefings on their groundbreaking technologies and ongoing research initiatives aimed at tackling water-related challenges.

Furthermore, Minister Aslam engaged with students participating in the poster competition, where young minds showcased their innovative ideas and projects related to water conservation and management. The students passionately explained their poster themes, offering the minister valuable insights into the next generation's commitment to addressing water issues.

At this occasion, Minister Water Resources also launched the recent research reports of PCRWR based on its groundbreaking work related to the Hudiara Drain, Assessment and Management of Surface and Groundwater in Islamabad, Tharparker and Cholistan, National threat of Arsenic in Groundwater.

Minister Aslam emphasized the importance of water for sustaining life during his speech. Citing alarming projections, he expressed concern over reports suggesting that by 2070, the Indus River could run dry, posing a severe threat to the region's ability to sustain life. The minister emphasized the need for collective efforts to conserve and manage water resources effectively.

Minister Aslam commended the organizers for their initiative in hosting such a significant event, shedding light on public awareness and providing a platform for research and development organizations to showcase their efforts. He particularly appreciated the active participation of youth, emphasizing the role of young minds in driving positive change. Minister Aslam encouraged the youth to actively participate in similar events, fostering a sense of responsibility and commitment to addressing the challenges posed by water scarcity.

Pakistan Water Week 2023 stands as a testament to the nation's dedication to finding sustainable solutions for water-related issues, with the hope that collaborative efforts will pave the way for a water-secure future.

Reporter: Awais Kiyani