Tarbela dam reaches full capacity as flood risk rises

The Water and Power Development Authority (Wapda) announced on Thursday that Tarbela Dam has been filled to its maximum conservation level of 1550 feet, with a storage capacity of 5.7268 million acre-feet (MAF).

At Tarbela Dam, the inflow of water from the Indus River has been recorded at 268300 cusecs, while the outflow stands at 238900 cusecs. The dam has already reached its maximum storage capacity earlier this week, ensuring a full supply for the months ahead. At Mangla Dam, water levels have risen to 1217.45 feet, which is nearly 74.5 percent of its total capacity of 1242 feet. The dam currently holds 5.423 million-acre-feet (MAF) of water. Inflows from the Jhelum River are measured at 38600 cusecs, while the outflow is being maintained at 7,000 cusecs to regulate storage.

Meanwhile, at Chashma Barrage, the Indus River inflow is recorded at 403500 cusecs, with an outflow of 351600 cusecs. The reservoir at Chashma holds 0.094 MAF of water. These inflows have pushed the country’s overall water storage to 11.245 MAF, showing a significant boost in reserves compared to recent months.

Flood conditions remain a concern along the Indus River. High flood levels have been reported at Guddu Barrage, while Taunsa and Sukkur barrages are facing medium flooding. At Kalabagh and Chashma, the river is in a low flood situation. Downstream at Kotri Barrage, however, flows remain below the low flood mark, providing some relief to the region. Officials say the improved water storage will help meet irrigation demands and support hydropower generation, while flood monitoring teams continue to keep a close watch on vulnerable areas to ensure public safety