A QUALITATIVE INSIGHT INTO THE FACTORS BEHIND WATER SCARCITY IN PUNJAB, PAKISTAN

This study was conducted for the exploration of different factors contributing to future water scarcity. For this qualitative study, 370 farmers were selected from the study area. The literature regarding the assessment of factors involved in water scarcity in Pakistan is scanty, which is producing a research gap. Few of the studies available were local, had a narrow scope, and were quantitative. Conversely, this study adopted a thematic analysis technique, which is a qualitative approach to analyze data collected through face to face interviews. Empirically, this study identified and discussed some important and explanatory themes striking water scarcity, i.e., inadequate institutional role, the conventional approach of farmers, inappropriate policies, ignorance of future water crises, and conflicts. The results gave a deep insight into how water scarcity is looming over and what measures are key to implement in order to alleviate water scarcity. The results also provide a significant generalization and recommendations to conserve water resources in an entire country.