Severe Water Shortage Hits Islamabad; CDA Plans New Dams
Islamabad is facing a severe water shortage, with the population of 2.3 million requiring 126 million gallons of drinking water daily. The Capital Development Authority (CDA) currently supplies only 70 to 80 million gallons per day, resulting in a significant shortfall.
Despite having three dams—Smalley Dam, Rawal Dam, and Khanpur Dam—and 201 tube wells, the CDA has struggled to meet the city’s water demands.
In response to the crisis, the CDA has announced plans for two new dam projects: Shahdara Dam and Chinyot Dam, expected to be completed within the next four years. These dams are projected to supply an additional 18 to 21 million gallons of water per day, helping to alleviate shortages, particularly in urban and rural areas.
CDA Water Supply Director Sardar Khan Zamri confirmed that the Shahdara Dam will provide 6 to 7 million gallons daily, while the Chinyot Dam is set to contribute 12 to 14 million gallons per day. The project timeline will become clearer following the completion of pre-feasibility studies with guidance from consultants and WAPDA.
Additionally, the CDA announced that the **Dutara Dam water supply project** is expected to be completed within the next four months, offering some short-term relief to residents facing the ongoing water crisis.
