Pakistan’s Major Dams Reach 58% Capacity as Monsoon Rains Continue
Pakistan’s major water reservoirs are currently 58 percent full, according to officials, as the country prepares for another spell of monsoon rainfall and authorities continue to monitor the flood situation.
During a meeting of the Senate Standing Committee on Water Resources, officials from the Federal Flood Commission (FFC) said Tarbela Dam is operating at 69 percent capacity, while Mangla Dam has reached 45 percent capacity. They added that the overall water storage situation remains under control despite increased river flows.
According to the FFC, the Chenab River is currently experiencing higher-than-normal flows due to recent rainfall, although water levels remain below the danger threshold. Low-level flood conditions have also been reported in parts of the Jhelum River and Sindh.
Officials informed the committee that Pakistan is facing challenges in accessing upstream flood-related information after India suspended cooperation under the Indus Waters Treaty. As a result, authorities said they are relying on alternative monitoring systems and domestic data to track river flows and assess flood risks.
The committee discussed the importance of strengthening Pakistan’s flood forecasting and early warning systems to improve preparedness during the ongoing monsoon season.
Officials also noted that the country’s existing reservoirs can store only a limited portion of floodwater, reducing their ability to significantly control downstream flooding during periods of exceptionally heavy rainfall.
The committee was briefed that between July 2 and July 20, several weather-related incidents were reported across Gilgit-Baltistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and Punjab, including flash floods, glacial lake outburst floods (GLOFs), cloudbursts, and riverbank erosion.
With additional monsoon rainfall forecast in many parts of the country, lawmakers sought updates on emergency preparedness and flood response measures. The committee also emphasized the importance of direct participation by provincial irrigation officials in future meetings to support effective coordination.
Authorities have advised the public, particularly those living in low-lying and flood-prone areas, to stay informed through official weather updates and follow instructions issued by relevant disaster management agencies.
