Islamabad – August 4, 2025 – Former Provincial Minister for Irrigation and Finance, Mr. Mohsin Leghari, has emphasized on paying immediate attention on Pakistan water related challenges and climate change preparedness.  He was sharing his thoughts at the latest episode of Freedom Gate Dialogues, hosted by Mahnoor Qureshi and organized by Freedom Gate Prosperity (FGP). In a candid and solutions-focused conversation, Mr. Leghari emphasized the urgent need for policy implementation, water governance reform, and climate adaptation in Pakistan.

Reflecting on his experience in public office, Mr. Leghari noted that Pakistan already has a National Water Policy that outlines the need for appropriate budgetary allocations and long-term strategy for water management. However, he stressed that the core issue lies in poor implementation and lack of follow-through.

“We have an excellent link canal system and the 1991 Water Accord that provides a framework to settle water distribution amicably, yet we remain engaged in political distractions and non-issues,” he said. He advocated for concrete, data-driven measures and future-oriented planning to address Pakistan’s escalating water and climate challenges.

Discussing climate change impacts, Mr. Leghari urged for a shift in mindset: “Instead of repeating the victim narrative, we need to build preparedness and resilience. Our water table is depleting rapidly due to irresponsible use, particularly in agriculture. It’s time to adopt rainwater harvesting, invest in awareness about changing weather patterns, and promote efficient water use technologies.”

He also warned against short-sighted policymaking and called for broader public engagement in understanding water security as a national issue.

In a special note, Mr. Leghari appreciated the role of Freedom Gate Prosperity, stating: “Organizations like FGP play a crucial role in raising awareness, fostering dialogue, and connecting grassroots realities with policy discourse. Their contribution is essential to shaping a responsible and informed citizenry.”

Mr Muhammad Anwar, CEO of FGP, earlier welcomed Mr. Leghari and appreciated his consistent thought leadership on water and climate governance. He reaffirmed FGP’s commitment to creating meaningful platforms for dialogue that connect policy, practice, and people.

The episode concluded with a commitment from FGP to continue convening leading voices on climate resilience, economic justice, and governance — and to turn dialogue into action that benefits communities across Pakistan. Ends_