Pakistan faces a critical water shortage as Mangla Dam has reached its dead level, forcing the Water and Power Development Authority (WAPDA) to halt water discharge. The situation is expected to worsen, with Tarbela Dam just three feet above its dead level and likely to reach it within the next 36 hours.
Alarming Water Levels at Major Dams
WAPDA reported that Mangla Dam’s water level has dropped to 1,050 feet, leaving only 72,000 acre-feet of water in storage. Meanwhile, Tarbela Dam stands at 1,402 feet, with only 15,000 acre-feet of water left. Chashma Dam has an equally low reserve of 15,000 acre-feet.
The combined water storage across Mangla, Tarbela, and Chashma dams is now 102,000 acre-feet, raising concerns about the availability of water for irrigation, drinking, and power generation.
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Declining Water Inflows and Outflows
The latest data from WAPDA highlights a troubling decline in water inflows and outflows:
- Tarbela Dam (Indus River): Inflow at 22,200 cusecs, outflow at 20,000 cusecs.
- Mangla Dam (Jhelum River): Inflow at 19,900 cusecs, but a high outflow of 28,000 cusecs.
- Chashma Barrage: Inflow at 38,400 cusecs, outflow at 27,000 cusecs.
- Chenab River (Headworks): Inflow at 10,800 cusecs, outflow at 6,100 cusecs.
- Kabul River (Nowshera): Both inflow and outflow recorded at 14,300 cusecs.
Impact on Agriculture and Power Generation
The depletion of water levels in major reservoirs poses a serious threat to agriculture, hydropower generation, and drinking water supply. Farmers rely heavily on these water reserves for irrigation, and any further decline could lead to severe crop failures. Additionally, hydroelectric power production may suffer, leading to extended electricity shortages.
Urgent Need for Water Conservation
With water levels dropping at an alarming rate, experts emphasize the urgent need for conservation measures. Authorities are being urged to implement efficient water management strategies to prevent a full-blown crisis.
As climate change and mismanagement continue to strain Pakistan’s water resources, the country must take immediate steps to protect its reservoirs and ensure sustainable water use for the future.
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