Amid ongoing monsoon rains, water levels in Pakistan’s major reservoirs have risen sharply, prompting authorities to implement precautionary measures to manage the situation and ensure public safety.
According to the Islamabad district administration, the water level at Rawal Dam has surged beyond 1750.70 feet—approaching its maximum conservation level.
In response, the authorities have announced that spillways will be opened at 6:00 a.m. tomorrow (Monday) to release excess water and mitigate any potential overflow risks. This move is aimed at preventing flooding in downstream areas and managing reservoir pressure effectively.
In anticipation of any emergency, rescue, security, and medical teams have been deployed at key locations surrounding the dam. The administration has issued a public advisory, urging citizens to avoid unnecessary movement or activities near the dam and adjoining areas. Special emphasis has been placed on avoiding recreational visits and fishing in the vicinity, as sudden water discharge from spillways could pose a serious threat.
Meanwhile, in a similar development, Tarbela Dam—one of Pakistan’s largest and most critical water reservoirs—has also experienced a considerable rise in water levels due to heavy rainfall and inflows from upstream rivers. As a result, spillways at Tarbela Dam were opened at 7:30 p.m. today (Sunday) to safely discharge excess water.
The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) had earlier issued alerts to all relevant federal and provincial departments, instructing them to stay on high alert and coordinate efforts for emergency response and flood mitigation.
Continuous monitoring of inflows and outflows at major reservoirs is underway, and real-time coordination between the Water and Power Development Authority (WAPDA), NDMA, and provincial disaster management bodies is being maintained.
Officials have reiterated that the situation is under control but caution remains paramount as rainfall is expected to continue in the coming days. The government has assured the public that all necessary steps are being taken to protect lives, infrastructure, and livelihoods.
