Impact of Climate Change on Water Quality and Sustainability in Baluchistan: Pakistan’s Challenges in Meeting United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDGs)

Pakistan's water quality and water management are at a crucial juncture, especially in the underdeveloped province of Baluchistan. The 5th most populous country which ranks 5th in global climate vulnerability index confronts evolving water security challenges, which is complicating its national security matrix. Water shortages are escalating swiftly due to increasing demand across all industries that utilize water. Burgeoning population, increasing from 175 million in 2010 to an estimated 247 million in 2024 and adverse impacts of climate change are seriously affecting water quality and availability across different sectors, which is exacerbated by persistent political instability and internal security issues, disincentivizing the potential investors in water sector at-least in short to medium term in Pakistan. The quality of drinking water is rapidly deteriorating due to water scarcity and contamination from various sources. Despite the government’s promises of providing clean drinking water to inhabitants of Baluchistan and employing smart technology for irrigation purposes, the implementation of these policies remains a formidable task. The study argues that surface and ground water in Baluchistan is contaminated, posing health risks and evolving human security challenges. The study examines drinking water quality using laboratory testing by collecting samples from designated urban and rural areas and comparing them with the minimum safe standards established by international and national clean drinking water guidelines. Laboratory testing has shown a significant decay in the quality of drinking water in Baluchistan, warranting immediate redressal. The persistent decline in water quality and water availability poses serious challenges in the attainment of the water related United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDGs) number six by 2030. The study provides incisive analysis and recommendations to facilitate the government and relevant ministries in mitigating the vulnerabilities of climate change, provide clean drinking water to inhabitants of Baluchistan and address critical issues of water security on sustainable basis.