PESHAWAR: The water levels in all three major dams supplying water to the twin cities of Rawalpindi and Islamabad, Rawal, Simly, and Khanpur, are dropping rapidly due to significantly low rainfall this year.
MD WASA says that due to low rainfall, it is difficult to distribute the available water, so cases will now be registered for unnecessary use of water. MD WASA appeals to citizens to save water and cooperate with WASA.On the other hand, due to low rainfall, the groundwater level has also dropped by 650 feet. MD WASA says that the water shortage is being met through tube wells and other sources, and water reserves are decreasing due to the continuous increase in population and commercial activities. It should be remembered that WASA had imposed a water emergency in Rawalpindi in February this year as well. This is the second time that WASA has imposed a water emergency in Rawalpindi. WASA operates 500 tube wells, most of which date back to the 1990s and have shallow depths, making them prone to drying out. Load has increased on the newer tube wells, with some now operating for extended hours. Free water delivery through tankers is being provided in affected areas, though private water tanker requests carry a fee. The Chahan Dam Water Supply Scheme is progressing slowly, but its completion is expected to significantly improve supply. The experts suggest that with changing climate patterns, tube wells are no longer a viable long-term solution – dam water is essential. If implemented, the Ghazi Barotha Project could address the water shortage in Rawalpindi and Islamabad for the next 100 years.
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