Third water quota increase approved for Punjab, Sindh from Tarbela Dam

ISLAMABAD: In response to escalating “effects of climate change”, particularly increased water flow, the Indus River System Authority (IRSA) held an emergency meeting to address water management issues in Tarbela Dam on Monday.

During the meeting, the focus was on the water levels in Tarbela Dam and allocations for provinces.

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IRSA approved to maintain Tarbela Dam’s water level at 1,470 feet until June 20, with an additional 5-foot increase thereafter. The meeting attendees observes that proactive measures needed to be taken to manage increased water flow effectively.

Post-June 30, Tarbela Dam would fill up according to IRSA’s regulations, ensuring equitable water distribution.

The meeting approved a third increase in water quota for Punjab and Sindh provinces. Punjab’s water share increased by 3.15 per cent and Sindh’s by 2.74 per cent. The increase is to address each province’s growing water demands.

Punjab’s water share increased to 12.42 acre feet and Sindh’s to 8.29 acre feet to support “socio-economic development”.

Earlier, IRSA faced issues in releasing more water to provinces due to Tarbela Dam’s limitations. Ongoing construction in the tunnel-5 of the hydropower plant prohibited storing water above 1,470 feet. A special meeting was then called with provinces aimed to address the issue. Due to climate, there was increase in water availability due to excessive rains and glacier melting.

IRSA reduced water shortage by up to 10 per cent due to Tarbela Dam’s inability to store water. This prompted increased water releases in the dam. Despite challenges, ample time and reservoir capacity ensured maximum conservation by August 20, ensuring water security.

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The Water and Power Development Authority (WAPDA) had informed IRSA about Tarbela project constraints. The electric supplier request reservoir maintenance at 1,470 feet until July 20, a decision IRSA agreed with during the meeting.

Post-June 20, IRSA will review outflow requirements based on system inflows. The measures aim to ensure water security and stability in the a country of 220 million.