Pakistan’s Main Dams Fill to Maximum Capacity
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Pakistan has achieved a significant milestone as its three main reservoirs—Mangla, Tarbela dams, and Chashma Barrage—have simultaneously reached their maximum capacity within a single day, marking a historic moment. This achievement, which took place on August 17th, has led to a combined water storage of 13.443 million acre-feet (MAF), raising hopes for strong crop yields during the ongoing Kharif season and the upcoming Rabi season.
The Indus River System Authority (IRSA) celebrated this event as a remarkable accomplishment, attributing it to coordinated efforts and effective water management. The Water and Power Development Authority (WAPDA), responsible for reservoir operations, regarded this occurrence as a positive indicator for both agriculture and hydroelectric power generation in Pakistan.
At present, Mangla Dam holds 7.356 MAF at a maximum conservation level of 1,242 feet, followed by Tarbela Dam with 5.809 MAF at 1,550 feet, and Chashma Barrage with 0.278 MAF at 649 feet. This coordinated filling of reservoirs ensures water availability for agricultural needs and facilitates inter-seasonal water transfers.
Also Read: Tarbela Dam Reaches Full Capacity Amid Heavy Rainfall
This achievement comes in the face of challenges posed by changing hydrological patterns due to climate change and technical constraints. IRSA acknowledged concerns about reduced water flows at the beginning of the Kharif season in 2023. However, timely and widespread rains in upper and lower catchment areas, particularly in the eastern rivers, contributed to effective management of water releases.
The presence of abundant water downstream in the eastern rivers—Ravi, Beas, and Sutlej—has negated the need for excessive discharges from the Mangla Dam, which is a positive development after a decade of water scarcity. This shift in water flow patterns highlights the importance of vigilance in areas near old riverbeds.
This achievement coincides with Indian reservoirs on the Sutlej and Beas rivers nearing their maximum levels at Bhakra and Pong storages. This synchronization underscores the interdependence of water management practices in the region.
The attainment of maximum capacity in Pakistan’s key reservoirs brings renewed optimism for robust crop production during the Kharif and Rabi seasons, benefiting the country’s crucial agricultural sector and overall economy.
