Islamabad, August 21, 2024 – The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) organized a Dissemination Workshop on the Integrated Water Resources Management (IWRM) Policy and Water Bill for Balochistan in Quetta on Tuesday. The event brought together approximately 80 participants, including representatives from the Balochistan government’s irrigation, agriculture, forestry, and livestock departments, media professionals, and representatives from local and international NGOs, to discuss the policy and bill that aim to transform water management in the province.

The Integrated Water Resources Management (IWRM) Policy and the Balochistan Water Bill, developed with the technical assistance of FAO and funded by the World Bank under the Balochistan Integrated Water Resources Management and Development Project (BIWRMDP), represent a significant step towards modernizing water governance in the province. These initiatives are designed to establish a comprehensive legal framework that supports the sustainable and equitable allocation of water resources, enhances institutional capacity, promotes gender-inclusive water management practices, and develops robust monitoring and evaluation systems.

Provincial Minister for Irrigation, Mir Muhammad Sadiq Umrani, emphasized the significance of the IWRM Policy and Water Bill, describing it as a milestone for Balochistan that will establish the foundation for sustainable and equitable water governance.

Waleed Mahdi, International Program Coordinator and Head of Office at FAO Balochistan, highlighted the collaborative nature of the initiative, noting that it represents a crucial step toward sustainable water management in Balochistan. He praised the strong partnership between the Government of Balochistan, FAO, and the World Bank in promoting inclusive water governance.

Dr. Robina Wahaj, Senior Land and Water Officer at FAO, explained that the policy and water bill provide a comprehensive framework for modern water management practices, climate change adaptation, and environmental protection. The Bill addresses both surface and groundwater resources, ensuring that all aspects of water management are unified under one legal framework

The workshop provided a platform for in-depth discussions on the policy and bill, with participants offering valuable insights and feedback. The IWRM Policy has already been endorsed by the Chief Minister of Balochistan and is slated to be presented to the Cabinet for final approval. Meanwhile, the Water Bill is undergoing final vetting and will be presented to the Provincial Assembly, where it will be deliberated and enacted by the Government of Balochistan's legislative process.