The Sindh Irrigation Department has issued an urgent warning about an impending water shortage and drought across Karachi and other regions of Sindh. The alert comes as water reservoirs reach dangerously low levels due to inadequate rainfall during the ongoing Rabi season. Officials warn that if the situation persists, water scarcity could exceed 50% at the start of the Kharif season, severely impacting agriculture and daily water supply.
Reservoirs Near Critical Levels
According to the irrigation department’s circular, the Tarbela Dam currently holds only 0.102 million acre-feet (MAF) of water, while the Mangla Dam stands at 0.226 MAF. Officials fear that both reservoirs could hit dead levels within four to five days, worsening the crisis. The department has urged authorities to devise a fair water distribution strategy to manage the crisis effectively.
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Widespread Impact Across Sindh
The drought is already affecting several districts. Karachi, Hyderabad, Thatta, Mirpurkhas, and Badin are experiencing severe water stress. Additionally, Dadu, Sukkur, Ghotki, Khairpur, Naushahro Feroz, Larkana, Jacobabad, and Tharparkar are also struggling with declining water availability.
Meteorological Department Confirms Drought Risk
The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has issued its own drought alert, confirming that Sindh has received 52% less rainfall this season. The dry spell is expected to continue through February and March, worsening drought conditions. Districts like Naushahro Feroze, Sukkur, Shaheed Benazirabad, and Jamshoro are particularly vulnerable.
The PMD’s data shows that Pakistan recorded 40% below-normal rainfall between September 2024 and January 2025. The recent spell of rain failed to bring significant relief to the plains, leaving drought conditions largely unchanged.
Authorities Urged to Take Action
In response to the crisis, the PMD has advised district administrations to implement emergency measures. Karachi’s deputy commissioners have been instructed to arrange alternative water sources, while authorities in Khairpur and Tharparkar have been directed to prepare for worsening conditions.
A Growing Crisis
As water levels continue to drop, Sindh faces a serious challenge in managing its resources. Without immediate action, the crisis could severely impact agriculture, drinking water supply, and overall living conditions in the province. The government must act swiftly to ensure fair distribution and explore alternative solutions to mitigate the impact of the ongoing drought
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