Water Shortage
Pakistan is facing a worsening water crisis as its two largest dams, Tarbela and Mangla, have reached dead levels, sparking serious concerns about water scarcity across the country.
The alarming situation has prompted the Indus River System Authority (IRSA) to issue a formal warning to all provincial irrigation departments, notifying them of a looming 30-35% shortage in water supply for the remainder of the Rabi season.
In an official letter sent to provincial irrigation authorities, IRSA highlighted the critical depletion of water reserves and urged immediate measures to manage the shortage effectively.
The letter emphasized that the crisis would persist unless there was sufficient rainfall to replenish the reservoirs. It further clarified that water would only be released based on the incoming supply, and no additional allocations would be made beyond what was naturally received.
The IRSA also called on provincial governments to implement corrective measures to ensure efficient water usage and conservation. The agency stressed the need for strict management of available resources, urging the provinces to prioritize agricultural and domestic water needs while minimizing wastage.
According to IRSA, Punjab and Sindh are already experiencing the effects of water shortages. Punjab is currently facing a 20% water deficit, while Sindh is enduring a 16% shortage during the ongoing Rabi season. The situation is expected to remain critical unless the country receives adequate rainfall in the coming weeks.
The authority has reiterated that the current water distribution plan will be strictly regulated, with no excess water releases beyond what is naturally available. Farmers and agricultural stakeholders have been particularly affected by the crisis, as the shortage threatens crop yields and irrigation systems.
Experts warn that the declining water levels in Tarbela and Mangla dams could have far-reaching consequences for Pakistan’s agriculture, drinking water supply, and overall economic stability.
The government is being urged to take proactive steps, including implementing water conservation policies, improving irrigation infrastructure, and exploring long-term solutions to address the country’s growing water scarcity problem.
Until significant rainfall occurs, water distribution will continue to be carefully managed to prevent further depletion of reserves. The authorities are closely monitoring the situation, hoping for improved weather conditions to alleviate the crisis.
