Tarbela, Mangla Dams Near Dead Level: IRSA Warns of Severe Water Shortage
Pakistan's Tarbela and Mangla dams are nearing dead levels, warns IRSA. Provincial governments alerted as Punjab and Sindh face a 30-35% water shortage.
Pakistan is facing an alarming water crisis as its two major reservoirs, Tarbela and Mangla dams, approach dead levels. The Indus River System Authority (IRSA) has sounded the alarm, warning provincial governments about the critical situation. The dwindling water reserves threaten the agricultural sector and could impact millions reliant on these reservoirs.
Current Water Levels at Tarbela and Mangla Dams
IRSA has reported that as of now:
- Tarbela Dam stands at 1,409.50 feet, just a few feet above its dead level of 1,402 feet.
- Mangla Dam is at 1,088.45 feet, dangerously close to its dead level of 1,050 feet.
If dry conditions persist, both reservoirs could reach their dead levels within three to four days
Provincial Water Shortage Estimates
IRSA estimates a 30 to 35 percent water shortage for the remaining Rabi season. The situation is dire for both Punjab and Sindh:
- Punjab: Facing a 20% water shortage, currently demanding 45,000 cusecs but receiving only 40,000 cusecs.
- Sindh: Facing a 16% water shortage, requiring 27,000 cusecs, but receiving 25,000 cusecs.
The declining water supply could severely impact wheat and other Rabi crops, exacerbating food security concerns.
IRSA’s Water Distribution Framework
To mitigate the crisis, IRSA has issued a new water distribution plan:
- Only the available inflows in reservoirs will be released.
- Provincial irrigation departments have been directed to take immediate water conservation measures.
- Farmers are advised to adopt water-efficient irrigation techniques.
Potential Relief from Rainfall
While IRSA remains hopeful that upcoming rainfall may alleviate the crisis, the situation remains unpredictable. If dry conditions persist, the reservoirs will reach dead levels sooner than expected, severely affecting the country’s irrigation, drinking water supply, and hydroelectric power generation.
The declining water levels pose severe risks to Pakistan’s economy, which heavily depends on agriculture:
- Reduced water supply will lead to lower crop yields.
- Farmers may face financial losses, impacting overall GDP growth.
- Hydropower generation from these dams could decline, leading to energy shortages and increased load shedding.
The recent rainfall across Pakistan has caused destruction in several regions:
- Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP): Heavy rains led to the death of four people, with nine others injured.
- PDMA Reports: 14 houses have been damaged in districts including Haripur, Battagram, Bajaur, Kohistan, Dir, Hangu, Khyber, and Torghar.
- Snowfall: Areas like Swat, Mansehra, and Chitral have experienced snowfall, leading to travel disruptions.
- Landslides: The Karakoram Highway has been blocked due to landslides in Upper Kohistan.
While rains have provided temporary relief, they have also caused destruction and disruptions in various parts of the country.
Conclusion and Future Outlook
Pakistan’s water crisis demands urgent action. While IRSA continues monitoring the situation, immediate steps are required to conserve water and implement sustainable water management strategies.
Key Takeaways:
- Tarbela and Mangla dams are dangerously close to dead levels.
- Punjab and Sindh face a severe water shortage, impacting agriculture.
- IRSA has issued a new water distribution plan to manage the crisis.
- Rainfall could offer relief, but it remains uncertain.
- Immediate conservation efforts are necessary to mitigate the impact.
For further insights, you can read our detailed analysis on water conservation strategies and Pakistan’s agriculture challenges.
With water scarcity worsening, proactive policies and efficient water usage will be crucial in addressing Pakistan’s ongoing crisis.
