Wastewater Treatment in Pakistan: Issues, Challenges and Solutions

Currently able to treat only 1% of its wastewater, Pakistan is far from its commitment under the sustainable development goals (SDGs) to treat up to 50% of its wastewater. The rapid urbanization of cities without corresponding improvements in infrastructure to collect and treat wastewater leads to poor quality water and sanitation. The organizations responsible for wastewater treatment are also responsible for providing quality drinking water, i.e., WASA (Water and Sanitation Authorities). This has resulted in untreated wastewater being used for irrigation, and heavy contamination of ground and surface drinking water, thus leading to disease. Decentralized wastewater treatment plants and nature based systems need to be introduced to both cities and villages so that water can be reused in a healthy and sustainable way. Industries are now beginning to adhere to compliance standards while cities are becoming aware that open drains are not a long term solution to this problem. In short, Pakistan needs to consider the long-term benefits of wastewater treatment instead of its short-term costs, and make it a priority.