Ongoing drought conditions have led to a critical water shortage in the country, with major reservoirs Tarbela Dam, Mangla Dam, Chashma Barrage reaching dead levels.
Pakistan is encountering a major hydropower crisis as water levels at Tarbela Dam have reduced to the dead level of 1,402 feet, significantly minimizing electricity generation. The development has strained the national power supply, further exacerbating the country’s ongoing energy challenges.
Sharp Decline in Power Production
With water inflows and outflows recorded at 17,300 cusecs, 12 out of 17 power-generating units at Tarbela have shut down, leaving just 5 operational. These remaining units are highly struggling for generating just 440 to 455 megawatts (MW) of electricity for the national grid—a fraction of the dam’s full capacity.
This sharp drop in output has brought Pakistan’s total hydropower production down to nearly 1,100 MW. The Water and Power Development Authority (WAPDA), which has an overall installed hydropower capacity of over 9,400 MW, is now producing far below its capacity, increasing the strain on the country’s already fragile energy system.
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Mangla and Chashma Reservoirs are encountering for Similar kind of Crisis
The situation is even more alarming as Mangla Dam has also reached its dead level, leading to zero power generation from one of the country’s other major reservoirs. Similarly, the Chashma reservoir is struggling with severe water shortages, causing a further drop in hydropower production across the nation.
Tarbela, which typically remains Pakistan’s highest-generating hydropower facility, is currently providing the majority of the country’s remaining hydel energy. However, with the continuous water crisis, officials warn that the situation could worsen further in the upcoming weeks.
Wider Impact: Irrigation and Energy Shortage Looms
Beyond the power sector, the water shortage could pose negative consequences for agriculture. Officials predict that provinces could face a 30-35% reduction in water supply during the remaining days of the Rabi season, threatening crop irrigation and food production.
With both energy and water supplies under strain, Pakistan is encountering a challenging period ahead. Experts emphasize the requirement for long-term water management solutions to stop future crises and minimize dependence on hydropower during seasonal droughts.