TAXILA: The water level at Khanpur Dam has dropped dangerously low, reaching just 11 feet above its dead storage level due to persistent dry weather, raising serious concerns over water supply to Islamabad and Rawalpindi.
According to official data released Friday, the dam’s level has fallen to 1,921 feet, while the dead level stands at 1,910 feet. With inflows at just 16 cusecs and outflows at 127 cusecs per day, including 96.18 cusecs for municipal use by the Capital Development Authority (CDA) and Rawalpindi Cantonment Board (RCB), the reservoir could be depleted within 25 days if current conditions persist.
An official noted the water level is declining by 0.10 feet daily, adding to the urgency. The catchment areas, including Margalla Hills and Galiyat, have received insufficient rainfall, leading to exposed rocks and dry patches across the dam—particularly at the main reservoir and spillways.
Authorities warn that without significant rainfall in the next 10 to 15 days, the dam could reach its dead level, risking a halt in supply.
Water release for irrigation in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Punjab was suspended a month ago. The water table in Taxila and Wah has also dropped significantly. Recreational activities have declined, with boatmen abandoning their boats due to the receding lake.
Located near Khanpur village on the Potohar Plateau, the dam is vital for domestic, agricultural, and industrial water supply to the twin cities and their surrounding areas.
