Pakistan is tussling with a high water crisis. Rawalpindi and Islamabad are among the areas most severely affected. The persistent dry spell and significantly below average rainfall led to an alarming decline in water levels at the region’s key reservoirs.
The Dams affected were Rawal, Simly, and Khanpur. These reservoirs now hold just enough water to last an estimated 40 to 45 days. The groundwater situation in Rawalpindi is also dire.
As the table sinks below 700 feet, water extraction becomes more difficult and costly. In response, authorities are planning to begin water rationing by mid-May. While the demand for private water tankers increases, many of which now charge for delivery.
In contrast, the government is supplying free tankers to the most affected localities. Rawal Dam stands at 1,741.10 feet, barely above its dead level of 1,708 feet; Simly Dam is at 2,263.80 feet, and Khanpur Dam is at 1,937.58 feet.
With rising temperatures accelerating evaporation, the Water and Sanitation Agency (WASA) launched an aggressive Water Control Plan. This includes strict action against water theft and enforcement against unpaid bills.
Prohibitions on the use of pipeline water for non-essential purposes, such as gardening and car washing, are also included. Car wash businesses are now required to install water recycling systems.
WASA’s infrastructure is also under strain. Most of its 500 tube wells are ageing and shallow, and newer ones are being overused to compensate for shortfalls. Relief may come from the Chahan Dam Water Supply Scheme.
The scheme, currently under construction, aims to improve supply in the long term. However, unless significant rainfall occurs soon, the situation in the twin cities could reach crisis levels.