ISLAMABAD: The Water and Sanitation Agency (WASA) in Rawalpindi has declared a drought emergency due to ongoing dry conditions, warning that the water crisis could worsen if there is no rainfall in February and March.
Managing Director Muhammad Saleem Ashraf highlighted that the Pakistan Meteorological Department has predicted low rainfall, further exacerbating the situation. He noted that rapid population growth and increasing commercial activities are depleting water reserves, making it difficult to distribute the limited available supply.
To encourage water conservation, WASA has launched a public awareness campaign. Ashraf explained that the drought has severely impacted reservoirs and underground water supplies, leading to a significant imbalance between supply and demand. “The city’s daily water demand is 68 million gallons, while only 51 million gallons are available from Rawal Dam, Khanpur Dam, and tube wells,” he stated.
The groundwater level has now dropped to 700 feet, prompting stricter measures against water wastage. Ashraf warned that strict action would be taken against excessive water use, and two citizens have already been fined.
He urged residents to reduce water consumption and cooperate with WASA, adding that water supply would remain suspended until February 22 due to maintenance work at Khanpur Dam.
