Chirah Dam Water Supply: A Transformational 28 MGD Lifeline for Twin Cities in 3 Years
Chirah Dam water supply project worth Rs43 billion promises a transformational boost to Rawalpindi and Islamabad, delivering 28 MGD within three years.
Chirah Dam water supply is emerging as a transformational infrastructure initiative aimed at resolving the escalating water crisis in Pakistan’s twin cities—Rawalpindi and Islamabad. Located in the Chirah area of the federal capital, the project has gained strong momentum following direct instructions from Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif.
The dam is being constructed under the Punjab Irrigation Department, with an estimated construction cost of Rs43 billion. Complementing the dam, the Rawalpindi Water and Sanitation Agency (WASA) has initiated feasibility work for downstream water treatment and supply infrastructure.
A Transformational Step Toward Water Security
The Chirah Dam water supply project is designed to deliver 28 million gallons of water per day (MGD)—a major relief for residents suffering from chronic shortages, declining groundwater levels, and climate-driven water stress.
Once operational, the project will equally distribute water between:
- Rawalpindi: 14 MGD
- Islamabad: 14 MGD
This balanced allocation ensures equitable urban water access without burdening a single city.
Project Cost, Funding & Government Commitment
The overall financial framework reflects strong federal–provincial cooperation:
| Component | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Chirah Dam Construction | Rs43 billion |
| WASA Feasibility Study | Rs80 million |
| Water Treatment Plant + 20 km Pipeline | Rs55 billion |
Total funding will be shared equally between the federal government and the Punjab government, reinforcing the project’s national importance.
For context on Pakistan’s water infrastructure financing, see
External Link: Pakistan Council of Research in Water Resources (PCRWR) – www.pcrwr.gov.pk
Role of WASA and Water Treatment Infrastructure
Under WASA Rawalpindi, a comprehensive feasibility study worth Rs80 million has already been approved. This study focuses on:
- Construction of a modern water treatment plant near Rawal Lake
- Laying of a 20-kilometre main water supply line
- Integration with existing urban water systems
Following feasibility approval, implementation costs are projected at Rs55 billion, covering advanced filtration, pumping, and transmission infrastructure.
Water Distribution Plan for Twin Cities
The Chirah Dam water supply system has been carefully planned to avoid urban imbalance. According to WASA officials:
- Water will be equally split
- Cantonment areas are excluded
- Priority remains civilian residential and commercial zones
This policy decision ensures transparency and prevents over-extraction.
Why Chirah Dam Water Supply Is Critically Important
Pakistan is among the most water-stressed countries in the world, according to the
For Islamabad and Rawalpindi, demand has surged due to:
- Rapid urban expansion
- Population growth
- Climate variability
- Declining groundwater recharge
The Chirah Dam water supply project directly addresses these challenges by adding a new surface water source, reducing reliance on tube wells.
Project Timeline and Expected Completion
Officials confirm that the project is expected to be completed within:
🕒 2.5 to 3 years
Key phases include:
- Dam construction
- Pipeline installation
- Treatment plant development
- System testing & commissioning
If completed on schedule, this could become one of the fastest-executed large water supply projects in the region.
Exclusion of Cantonment Areas Explained
A notable feature of the Chirah Dam water supply plan is the exclusion of cantonment areas. Authorities clarify that:
- Existing cantonment systems remain separate
- The project focuses on municipal civilian needs
- It avoids jurisdictional and administrative overlap
This clarity helps streamline governance and accountability.
Linking Chirah Dam with Rawal Lake System
The project smartly integrates with the Rawal Lake Water Treatment Plant, ensuring:
- Minimal environmental disruption
- Efficient water processing
- Reduced duplication of infrastructure
External Link: Capital Development Authority (CDA)
Environmental and Urban Impact
Beyond water supply, the Chirah Dam water supply initiative offers long-term benefits:
- Groundwater recharge support
- Reduced water tanker dependency
- Lower household water costs
- Improved public health outcomes
Environmental safeguards are expected to align with national climate resilience goals.
Expert and Official Statements
WASA Managing Director Muhammad Saleem Ashraf emphasized:
“The Chirah Dam Water Supply project is of exceptional importance for meeting the rapidly growing water needs of Rawalpindi and Islamabad.”
This official backing highlights the project’s strategic value.
Future Outlook for Islamabad & Rawalpindi
Urban planners see the Chirah Dam water supply as a foundation for:
- Smart city expansion
- Industrial water security
- Climate-adaptive infrastructure
It also complements broader national water storage goals.
Conclusion
The Chirah Dam water supply project stands as a powerful, hopeful, and transformational milestone for Pakistan’s twin cities. With a total daily output of 28 MGD, strong intergovernmental funding, and a realistic completion timeline of three years, the initiative promises lasting relief from water scarcity.
If implemented efficiently, Chirah Dam could redefine urban water security in Islamabad and Rawalpindi—setting a benchmark for future infrastructure development across Pakistan.
