Abstract:
A detailed analysis of Transboundary Kabul and Jhelum Rivers along with their major tributaries has been carried out with specific focus on quantity, quality and assessment of temporal changes in land cover/land use along these rivers inside Pakistan. The annual (1977-2015) mean river inflow (average of every 10 days) of the rivers revealed no significant transboundary flow fluctuation. Impact of under construction and planned Indian future developments in Jhelum River Basin and by Government of Afghanistan in Kabul River Basin were assessed in the light of reduction in transboundary flow discharge in Pakistan for Rabi and Kharif seasons. In terms of water quality, pH (7.90 to 8.06), total coliform, faecal coliform, E. coli and other water quality parameters were compared with the standards of ―World Wide Fund for Nature – Pakistan‖. Waters of both the rivers was found to be unsuitable for drinking while suitable for agriculture and aquatic life moreover microbiological analysis revealed that the Jhelum River and its transboundary tributaries were subjected to disposal of transboundary sewage before entering Pakistan. Remote sensing data shows temporal changes for the last thirty years especially the cultivated areas along Kabul and Jhelum Rivers in Pakistan have been increased at the mean annual rate of 2 % and 3.3 % respectively. Significant changes in the river course were also observed at different locations. Insights of impending Kabul and Jhelum water issues for Pakistan have been discussed and a way forward is offered in consideration with international laws of joint water ways and existing Indus Water Treaty which could serve as the basis for formulation of adaptation strategies regarding management of waters of Kabul and Jhelum Rivers.
