Hina Durrani
ISLAMABAD, Oct 18 (APP):A comprehensive water accounting and auditing system can strengthen water governance, improve resource planning and ensure the efficient and equitable utilisation of water resources in the country, a water governance expert said.
In an interview with APP, Dr. Muhammad Ashraf, Country Representative of the International Water Management Institute (IWMI) in Pakistan, emphasised that accurate water resource assessments and systematic accounting were essential for evidence-based policymaking, transparent water allocation and sustainable water management.
He said a comprehensive assessment of water originating from glaciers, rainfall, groundwater, wastewater and hill torrents could provide policymakers with a clearer picture of available resources and help them make informed decisions about their development and utilisation.
Drawing a comparison with financial accounting, Dr. Ashraf explained that water accounting involved systematically recording water inflows, consumption and outflows, while water audits could help identify losses, improve efficiency and ensure the effective utilisation of available resources.
He said reliable water data is essential for planning infrastructure projects such as dams, noting that accurate assessments of current resources and future needs support sound investment decisions and ensure long-term water security.
Dr. Ashraf said consultations with federal and provincial stakeholders had been undertaken to develop water resource assessment and water accounting guidelines, laying the groundwork for a more systematic and coordinated approach to water management.
He emphasised that integrating water assessment, accounting and auditing into policymaking and development planning could strengthen institutional accountability, enhance transparency and build trust among stakeholders involved in water distribution.
The expert said a data-driven approach would also enable authorities to identify opportunities to reduce water losses, improve allocation, promote efficient water use and develop sustainable solutions to emerging water challenges.
He stressed that coordinated efforts by federal and provincial governments, relevant institutions and stakeholders were essential to translate reliable water data into practical measures for sustainable water governance and long-term water security in Pakistan.
Source: APP (Associated Press of Pakistan)
