A delegation from the National Workshop Balochistan received a detailed briefing at WAPDA House in Lahore on Tuesday, focusing on the authority's strategy for developing water and hydropower projects. The session highlighted pressing issues surrounding Pakistan's water, food, and energy security. Main Developments Chairman WAPDA Lt Gen (r) Muhammad Saeed led the interactive session, outlining the challenges to water security posed by climate change and India's unilateral suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty. He emphasized the urgent need for new water reservoirs and addressed the slow pace of water resource development in Pakistan. The delegation learned that WAPDA is currently constructing four major projects: Diamer Basha Dam, Mohmand Dam, Dasu Hydropower Project, and Tarbela 5th Extension. These initiatives are expected to add approximately 10 million acre-feet (MAF) to gross water storage and 10,000 megawatts of clean, affordable hydropower to the National Grid. Read also: 3 reasons Azma Bokhari says PPP lost its way in Kashmir elections Background The briefing comes amid heightened concerns over water security in Pakistan, particularly after India's decision to hold the Indus Waters Treaty in abeyance. Chairman Saeed described this move as a form of water weaponization, further straining cross-border water relations. WAPDA's role and mandate have evolved since the organization's unbundling in 2007, a point clarified during the session. Senior officials present included Member (Finance) Naveed Asghar Chaudhry, Member (Power) Muhammad Arfan Miana, and Member (Water) Asim Rauf Khan. Why It Matters Pakistan faces growing challenges to its water, food, and energy security, exacerbated by climate change and regional tensions. The addition of 10 MAF of storage and 10,000 MW of hydropower would significantly bolster the country's resilience against these threats. Chairman Saeed stressed that a 'whole of nation approach' is essential to safeguard these critical resources. The delegation's visit underscores the importance of inter-provincial coordination, particularly with Balochistan, a province acutely affected by water scarcity. What's Next WAPDA continues construction on the four major projects, with timelines for completion likely to be discussed in future briefings. The delegation's feedback may inform further policy adjustments, as the authority seeks to accelerate water resource development amid financial and technical hurdles.