Pakistan's reservoirs hit dead levels, causing water crisis

Pakistan is facing a severe water crisis as ongoing drought conditions have caused major reservoirs to reach critical levels. The Tarbela and Mangla dams are now at what is termed "dead level," which means they have no usable water left for storage or energy generation. The Tarbela Dam has reached a height of 1,402 feet, while the Mangla Dam is at 1,054 feet. The Chashma Barrage also sits at dead level, with limited usable water remaining. The total water stored in these reservoirs is just 86,000 acre-feet, according to the Water and Power Development Authority (WAPDA). The low water levels have severely reduced hydropower generation in the country. Pakistan has a total hydropower capacity of 10,000 megawatts (MW), but currently, only about 1,000 MW is being produced. Most of the power units at the Tarbela Dam are shut down, leading to a generation of only 350 MW. Other power sources are also operating at reduced capacity, leaving a significant electricity shortfall. Experts are warning that the situation may worsen, leading to more electricity shortages and challenges for agriculture. They stress the urgent need for effective water management strategies to address the crisis.