Abstract:
This paper looks at the Indus Basin Water Strategy for Pakistan. It
begins with a historical overview of the Indus Basin Irrigation System
(IBIS), the Indus Basin Replacement Works (1960-1980) and the Indus Basin
Salinity Control Efforts (1960-2000). The paper then looks at the IBIS
irrigation and salinity control investments that have taken place over the
last decade (2000-2010). The paper goes on to look at the present situation
of the IBIS as well as discuss an IBIS strategy for the next decade. Finally,
the paper discusses supply side and demand management strategies for IBIS.
Overall, the paper concludes that Pakistan should focus on (1) Creating
Additional Surface Storage, (2) Preserving surface water (particularly
through lining canals), (3) Controlling Groundwater and controlling
salinity (by discouraging excessive tube-well use), (4) Encouraging general
efficiency of irrigation water use (through improved land management
techniques), (5) Enhancing yields through improved farming practices, and
(6) Fully meeting the environmental concerns of the Indus Delta, river
systems and wetlands.
