147. Assessment of the Use of Wastewater for Irrigation: A Case in Punjab, Pakistan

A study to assess the environmental risks associated with using untreated wastewater for irrigation was carried out in the city of Haroonabad in the Punjab province of Pakistan. The study consisted of the analysis of soil and water quality, and irrigation efficiency, in addition to field inspection and interviews with local stakeholders. The results confirmed that due to an excessive application of wastewater, the groundwater quality was degraded, but that current soil heavy metal contents in wastewater irrigated areas were within internationally established “safe” limits. Wastewater utilization is fundamental to maintaining livelihoods in water-scarce and low-income regions. Owing to the present financial constraints of the city, for an introduction of a treatment system it is important to develop and apply feasible methods of wastewater irrigation management that would facilitate the sustainable use of soil and water resources, preserve environmental integrity and improve rural livelihoods on a long-term basis.