The water level at Khanpur Dam has dropped alarmingly close to its dead level, sparking fears of a severe water crisis in Islamabad and Rawalpindi. Currently standing at just 1919 feet — a mere 9 feet above the dead level of 1910 feet — the dam has been reduced to what officials describe as resembling a “pond.”
Authorities have already suspended water supply for irrigation to Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Meanwhile, Islamabad’s Capital Development Authority (CDA) and Rawalpindi are receiving just 50 cusecs of water, which officials warn could soon be halted altogether. The dam’s inflow is currently 25 cusecs, while the outflow is 103 cusecs — a dangerous imbalance.
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Experts have raised red flags over the rapidly declining water levels, warning of a looming drinking water shortage, damage to aquatic life, and widespread agricultural losses. Local orchards and irrigation canals in the Khanpur region have already dried up, with no significant rainfall in sight.
The water crisis also threatens Khanpur’s tourism industry. During the three days of Eid, over 200,000 visitors arrived at the dam, generating significant revenue from parking fees. However, if the drought persists, water-based recreational activities may cease, putting local livelihoods at risk.
