The city of Rawalpindi is experiencing a serious water shortage during the peak summer season. Several areas in the city and cantonment are struggling to receive a regular water supply. Residents have reported difficulties in meeting their daily water needs.
In the cantonment areas, Misrial Road, Afshan Colony, Dhoke Chaudhrian, People’s Colony, Adra, Tench Bhatta, Dhoke Syedan, and Baraf Khana Chowk are among the most affected locations. Residents in these areas say water availability has become increasingly irregular.
Several parts of the city are also facing similar problems. Areas along the old Airport Road, stretching from Koral Chowk to Ammar Chowk, have been affected after the Capital Development Authority stopped water supply from tubewells located within its limits.
The shortage has forced many households to rely on private water tankers. Residents say this has increased their expenses during the hot summer months. Some areas receive water only on alternate days, while others get supply for limited hours.
People living in cantonment areas have raised concerns over the unreliable water system. They questioned the shortage despite the availability of water sources, including Khanpur Dam and local tubewells. Residents have also expressed concerns over private tankers selling water at higher prices while households struggle to get sufficient supply.
Officials explained that the main reason behind the shortage is the growing gap between demand and supply. Cantonment board authorities said most areas depend on Khanpur Dam, which currently provides around 11 million gallons of water daily. However, the number of residential areas has increased significantly over time.
Officials added that the cantonment has been receiving a limited water share. They also said a lack of funds has created difficulties in installing additional tubewells to improve supply.
WASA Managing Director Azizullah Khan said areas near old Airport Road are facing shortages because the CDA suspended supply from tubewells installed along the Islamabad Expressway. He said WASA has contacted CDA officials and expects the issue to be resolved soon.
WASA has also prepared a request for the federal government to restore water supply from these tubewells. Officials said these tubewells were installed by WASA using Punjab government funds with permission from CDA.
The department has formed technical teams to inspect more than 480 tubewells across city areas. Officials aim to identify operational issues and improve water availability.
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However, authorities also noted that electricity load-shedding in several areas is affecting water supply operations. The government departments involved are working to address the shortage and restore a more reliable water system for residents of Rawalpindi.
