2022

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The Tragedy of Ruhi Nala, An Orphaned Water Common
(UMT, Lahore, 2022) ANUSHA MANAHIL
Governance of Commons is complex and dynamic. With its polycentric nature involving multiple actors at different levels and scales brings diversity in the conception of development, governance, and community organization. In such commons, the water commons have been subject to over appropriation globally fueled by the growing population, absence of laws, and different types of social institutions in place. This research analyzes these aspects through the case of Ruhi Nala, a historically important 2-kilometer drain that has been degraded to a waste drain. This Nala snakes through ten main administrative zones of Lahore with residents having varying income brackets yet it faces a similar fate. The research identifies the polycentric social institutions in place through the lens of Elinor Ostrom’s design principles. The focus is on the seventh principle which explores the potential solutions to appropriators having legitimacy to self-organize in order to avoid the tragedy of the Nala. The research uses successful cases of Bolivia and the USA to provide insight into successful self-organizing practices in governing water commons. This research is a stepping stone toward reshaping the academic landscape of understanding the governance and policy-making revolving around common pool resources.