A severe water crisis is imminent for the twin cities of Rawalpindi and Islamabad, as the water level in Khanpur Dam has fallen significantly, with authorities estimating that the remaining supply will last only 35 days.

According to a report by Dawn, visible rocks and mounds in the reservoir highlight the impact of climate change and a declining water table.

Officials warn that without substantial rainfall in the next 10 to 15 days, the dam’s water level could drop to critical levels.

The lack of rainfall in the dam’s catchment areas, including the Margalla Hills, has exacerbated the situation, leading to fears that water supplies for irrigation in Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa may need to be suspended, along with reduced drinking water availability for Rawalpindi and Islamabad.

Currently, the dam’s water level stands at 1,935 feet above mean sea level, just 25 feet above the dead level. The inflow into the dam has dwindled to only 82 cusecs, while the outflow is at 235 cusecs.

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The Water and Power Development Authority (WAPDA) has indicated that if conditions do not improve, the situation could worsen significantly, prompting the implementation of a water rationing plan by the Water and Sanitation Agency (WASA).

This report highlights the pressing need for effective water management strategies as the region grapples with diminishing water resources.