Experts discuss ‘hydrology and its nexus with energy, economy and environment’ at webinar

Islamabad, April 28, 2022: Alliance for Climate Justice and Clean Energy member Indus Consortium organized a webinar on “Hydrology and its nexus with energy, economy and environment,” in collaboration with Grow Green Network.

“World Commission on Dams’ [WCD] framework covers key areas for improved planning of dams,” said Co-executive Director of International Rivers Network, Josh Klemm. This includes, he said, the need to fully assess all available options for meeting water and energy needs, addressing outstanding social issues from existing dams before building new ones, gaining public acceptance for key decisions and the importance of protecting healthy rivers.

“Unfortunately, many of the key principles are still not practiced today and WCD has largely been forgotten or deliberately ignored today,” Mr Klemm added.

Addressing the audience, renowned hydrologist and water expert Dr. Hassan Abbas highlighted wind and solar as the alternatives to mega structures for sustainable water and energy solutions.

Investigative journalist Zahid Ali presented the case study of the Neelum Jhelum hydropower project and presented its economic impacts on taxpayers. Former Naib Nazim for Badin, Abdul Aziz Dero, shared his concerns regarding the deterioration of the Indus Delta.