Water crises: Mangla Dam hits dead level

In an alarming development, Pakistan’s water reservoirs have reached critical levels as the Mangla Dam water level dropping to the “dead level”.

Due to the aforementioned development, hydroelectric power production has also been suspended, WAPDA spokesperson said.

Moreover, Tarbela Dam stands just two feet above its dead level, while Chashma Barrage is only one foot above.

Current Reservoir Levels:

At Tarbela Dam, the water is at 1404.93 feet (minimum operating level: 1402 feet, maximum storage level: 1550 feet). Current water storage is 14,000 acre-feet.

Similarly, Mangla Dam the water level has hit 1050 feet (minimum operating level: 1050 feet, maximum storage level: 1242 feet). Current water storage is 72,000 acre-feet.

At the Chashma Barrage, it is at 639.30 feet (minimum operating level: 638.15 feet, maximum storage level: 649 feet). Current water storage is 17,000 acre-feet.

The severe water shortage highlights Pakistan’s ongoing struggles with water management and climate change impacts.

Experts have been urging authorities to implement sustainable water conservation and storage strategies to address this crisis.