ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s water reservoirs have reached critical levels, with the Mangla Dam’s water level dropping to its “dead level,” halting hydroelectric power production.
A spokesperson for WAPDA confirmed that the Mangla Dam is now at its minimum operational level, resulting in the suspension of its power generation.
Meanwhile, the Tarbela Dam is just two feet above its dead level, and the Chashma Barrage is only one foot above it. As a result, Mangla Dam has stopped producing electricity due to the severe water shortage.
Current Reservoir Levels:
- Tarbela Dam: Water level at 1404.93 feet (minimum operating level: 1402 feet, maximum storage level: 1550 feet). Current storage is 14,000 acre-feet.
- Mangla Dam: Water level at 1050 feet (minimum operating level: 1050 feet, maximum storage level: 1242 feet). Current storage is 72,000 acre-feet.
- Chashma Barrage: Water level at 639.30 feet (minimum operating level: 638.15 feet, maximum storage level: 649 feet). Current storage is 17,000 acre-feet.
River Flows:
- Tarbela: Indus River inflow is 19,600 cusecs, with an outflow of 20,000 cusecs.
- Nowshera: Kabul River inflow and outflow are both 14,600 cusecs.
- Mangla: Jhelum River inflow is 19,800 cusecs, with an outflow of 19,900 cusecs.
- Marala: Chenab River inflow is 16,600 cusecs, with an outflow of 11,900 cusecs.
Other barrages such as Jinnah, Chashma, Taunsa, Guddu, Sukkur, and Kotri are also experiencing varying inflow and outflow levels, reflecting the declining water availability across the country.
The significant water shortage is a stark reminder of Pakistan’s ongoing challenges with water management and the effects of climate change. The drop in water levels not only impacts electricity production but also poses severe risks for agriculture and drinking water supplies.
Experts have long urged the government to implement sustainable water conservation strategies and improve storage capabilities to combat this crisis.
Given Pakistan’s heavy reliance on hydroelectric power, these shortages could exacerbate energy shortfalls, especially during peak demand periods. The situation emphasizes the urgent need for more sustainable water resource management and diversification of the energy mix.
Developing renewable energy sources like solar and wind, alongside improving energy efficiency, could help Pakistan reduce its dependence on hydroelectric power and mitigate the risks of future energy crises. This combined approach could help ensure a more stable and resilient energy future for the country.
