ISLAMABAD: A recent study conducted by Gomal University Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Muhammad Zafar Iqbal has raised serious questions about the quality of drinking water in the federal capital, Islamabad.
He tested the water obtained from his residence, Swan Garden Islamabad, and analyzed at the Gomal University Water Research Laboratory, which gave alarming results. The analysis revealed that the water contains dangerous levels of lead, arsenic and other heavy metals, which not only affect the quality of water but also pose a silent but serious threat to the health of citizens.
Speaking to the media, Dr. Zafar Iqbal said, “Water that appears clean is not necessarily healthy. The presence of heavy metals can cause problems like cancer, liver and kidney diseases and neurological disorders in children.”
He termed the issue not just a personal or local issue but a national public health crisis, saying that Pakistan’s universities should no longer be limited to education, but should function as centres of social welfare, research and public awareness.
Professor Zafar Iqbal appealed to the government, water management institutions and civil society to make the provision of clean water a national priority. He said, “We cannot wait for a major crisis. The time has come for us to jointly take steps for regular water testing, improvement of water treatment plants and public awareness.”
He also expressed Gomal University’s commitment to play an active role in clean water research, leadership and social awareness. “Water is life, clean water is a right”, Professor Zafar remarked.
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