Twin cities grapple with water scarcity

Authorities attribute shortage to annual desilting of Khanpur Dam’s left bank canal

RAWALPINDI:

Annual cleaning of the Khanpur Dam's Left Bank Canal has led to a significant reduction in the daily water supply to Rawalpindi and Islamabad.

Commencing on February 12 and continuing until February 21, the extensive cleaning aims to eliminate obstructions and leaks in the 12 km long open water channel that transports water from Khanpur Dam to the Singjani Water Treatment Plant.

During this period, citizens have been urged by the Rawalpindi Water and Sanitation Agency (WASA), Chaklala Cantonment boards, and the Capital Development Authority (CDA) to use water responsibly and conserve water until the cleaning process is completed.

The daily water supply from Khanpur Dam to Rawalpindi has been curtailed from 15 million gallons per day to 6 million gallons per day, while Islamabad's supply has been reduced from 7 million gallons per day to 4 million gallons per day.

WASA Managing Director Muhammad Saleem Ashraf said the joint efforts of CDA, WASA, and Cantonment boards are focused on efficiently completing the cleanup within the specified ten-day timeframe.

“The primary objective is to ensure a smooth flow of water in the canal by addressing any hindrances and leakages.”

Several areas in Rawalpindi, including Pir Wadhai, Dhok Mingtal, Dhok Hasu, Khayaban-e-Sir Syed, Shamsabad, and Double Road areas, will experience water supply suspension or reduced supply.

Residents are advised to use water judiciously during this period and store water for essential needs.

The managing director assured the public that endeavours will be made to expedite the cleaning process. “In case of emergencies, consumers are encouraged to report issues to WASA's toll-free number 1334 or the nearest complaint centre.”

Citizens have been alerted through an advisory issued by the Rawalpindi and Chaklala Cantonment boards and CDA to exercise caution in water usage during the sanitation period.

The advisory emphasized the importance of avoiding water scarcity and potential difficulties by being mindful of reduced water availability.

It is worth noting that the twin cities' water supply relies on the discharge from Khanpur Dam, Rawal Dam, and tube wells. Despite these water sources, citizens continue to face water shortages throughout the year, underscoring the necessity for coordinated efforts during routine maintenance to mitigate disruptions in the water supply system.

The water supply department of the CDA said it is working on several projects to meet the shortage of water in Islamabad so that the citizens do not face any kind of difficulties during summer.

Published in The Express Tribune, February 15^th 2024.