Rawalpindi authorities have declared a water emergency for the second time this year as the city grapples with a severe drought that has drastically reduced water reserves.
The Water and Sanitation Agency (WASA) reports that Khanpur Dam now contains only enough water to last one month, while Rawal Dam's reserves may sustain the city for up to three months under current consumption patterns.
WASA Managing Director Muhammad Saleem Ashraf revealed that the daily water demand in Rawalpindi has reached over 50 million gallons, yet the available supply stands at just 30 million gallons—creating a significant daily deficit of 20 million gallons.
The persistent lack of precipitation has forced greater dependence on tube wells and alternative water sources throughout the region. Officials cite rapid population growth and increased commercial activities as additional factors accelerating water resource depletion.
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In response to the crisis, WASA has announced potential legal action against unnecessary water usage and urged residents of both Rawalpindi and neighboring Islamabad to implement immediate conservation measures.
Water conservation experts recommend several practical steps for residents, including:
- Fixing leaky faucets and pipes
- Taking shorter showers
- Reusing household water for gardening when possible
- Avoiding hosing down driveways and sidewalks
- Running washing machines and dishwashers only with full loads
Local meteorologists report that rainfall patterns have been consistently below seasonal averages, with little immediate relief expected. Climate monitoring stations across Punjab province have recorded significantly reduced precipitation compared to historical data.
