Rivers that flow into Pakistan from India are becoming a serious source of water pollution, according to a report by the Pakistan Council of Research in Water Resources (PCRWR). The report warns that drinking water in several major cities of Punjab is no longer safe and poses risks to public health.
The study points out that the Ravi and Sutlej rivers are bringing harmful metals and other pollutants into Pakistan from across the border. In Islamabad, the situation is also worrying, as 34 percent of the drinking water has been declared contaminated and unsafe for use.
Researchers examined cross-border pollution in the Ravi and Sutlej rivers along with nearby drains. The Ravi River was found to contain the highest concentration of hazardous metals, while the Sutlej was also carrying a large amount of pollutants. Drains such as Fasilka, Kasur and Hudiara were identified as major sources adding to the contamination.
The report further revealed that 74 percent of the water flowing through local streams and drains in Islamabad is polluted. Water quality in major reservoirs is also affected.
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About 69 percent of the water in Simly Dam is considered unfit for drinking, while 44 percent of the supply from Rawal Dam has been found unsafe. The PCRWR also highlighted problems in the water treatment system at Rawal Dam, which are reducing the effectiveness of purification efforts.
Authorities have called for urgent steps to address cross-border water pollution and to improve water treatment systems in order to protect public health.