CEWRI was established in 1991-92 as a result of re-organization of the water related research programmes being executed at the National Agricultural Research Center (NARC), Islamabad. Presently, the Institute is involved in problem-oriented, strategic, operational and inter-disciplinary research in areas of national importance.
The Institute has trained multi-disciplinary team of about 24 qualified scientists / engineers supported by skilled staff of over 40 persons with well-equipped laboratories and weather stations. The scientists and engineers are engaged in research activities aimed at devising solutions and management strategies for climate change, water resources and alternate energy which are economically viable, technically feasible and socially acceptable.