PESHAWAR (Lord Media): The groundwater level in Peshawar is rapidly declining, with some areas experiencing a drop of more than one meter annually. Over the past three decades, an average decrease of 6.5 meters has been recorded.
The groundwater reserves in Peshawar Valley are under severe pressure. The annual decline in Peshawar is approximately one meter, while in Nowshera, it is recorded at 1.3 meters. Experts attribute this to population growth, unplanned urban expansion, and excessive use of tube wells.
A 2019 study revealed that not only is the water level falling, but its quality is also deteriorating. Forty-five percent of water samples were found unsafe for drinking, containing nitrates and other pollutants above permissible limits.
Experts emphasize the urgent need for comprehensive groundwater monitoring, tube well registration, rainwater harvesting, and responsible water use at the urban level.
Experts warn that if groundwater usage is not effectively regulated, the water crisis in Peshawar Valley could worsen.
