Significant increases in water level have been recorded in the country’s dams following recent rainfall, with Tarbela, Mangla and Chashma barrages nearing their maximum capacity.
The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has forecast a rise in water flow in the Indus River and has opened the spillways at Tarbela Dam.
Over the past fifteen days, continuous rainfall across the country has led to an increase of 3.56 million acre-feet in water reserves, bringing the usable water storage to 7.371 million acre-feet. The water level in Tarbela Dam has risen by 66 feet, reaching 1,520 feet. Similarly, Mangla Dam's storage has increased to 3.019 million acre-feet, with its level rising by 9 feet to 1,168 feet. Chashma Barrage's water level has also reached 648 feet, leaving only one foot of storage capacity remaining.
According to the NDMA, the opening of Tarbela Dam's spillways may lead to increased water flow in the Indus River. The authority has warned that the flow could rise from 260,000 to 270,000 cusecs. Residents living near watercourses have been advised to remain cautious and avoid recreational activities along the riverbanks.
