LAHORE: Experts and policymakers highlighted the growing link between water governance and national security during a discussion hosted by the Centre for Aerospace and Security Studies (CASS) Lahore on June 10, 2026. The event focused on how water scarcity, climate change, and resource management are shaping Pakistan’s long-term security and development outlook.

Titled “Water Governance as a Climate Security Challenge in Pakistan,” the event brought together academics, researchers, and domain specialists to examine the country’s water-related challenges and potential policy responses. The discussion addressed issues ranging from groundwater depletion and water distribution to climate resilience and regional water disputes.

Opening the session, Amjad Fraz, Research Assistant at CASS Lahore, welcomed participants and outlined the importance of examining water security within the broader framework of national security.

Dr. Fiaz Hussain Shah, Director of the Institute of Environmental Design and Conservation (IEDC) at NUST, described water security as a key component of human and national security. He said climate change is acting as a threat multiplier, increasing pressure on already limited water resources. He also discussed regional water issues, including developments related to the Indus Waters Treaty and transboundary river management.

Dr. Shah emphasized the need for a coordinated national approach to address groundwater depletion, water losses, and distribution challenges, arguing that water security should be treated as a whole-of-government priority.

Speaking at the event, Naseer Memon, Senior Advisor for Water Governance at the Sustainable Development Policy Institute (SDPI), said Pakistan is facing severe water stress driven by rapid population growth and inefficient resource management. He highlighted concerns related to canal seepage, waterlogging, salinity, groundwater regulation, and water pollution.

Memon also stressed the importance of protecting the Indus Delta and its mangrove ecosystem, which plays a critical role in mitigating environmental risks. He called for improved water governance through population management, sustainable agricultural practices, aquifer recharge initiatives, and greater transparency in water distribution.

In his concluding remarks, Air Marshal Asim Suleiman (Retd), President of CASS Lahore, said water stress has become a reality across Pakistan and requires long-term planning and institutional coordination. He noted the country’s growing dependence on groundwater and underscored the importance of implementing existing water-related policies and adaptation strategies.

The event concluded with an interactive discussion covering food security, climate diplomacy, water policy, and local governance. Participants welcomed the forum as an opportunity to explore solutions to Pakistan’s emerging water and climate challenges.

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