Islamabad’s Growing Population Triggers Urgent Water Crisis

Islamabad, Pakistan's capital, is facing a critical water crisis as its population continues to grow at an alarming rate. The city's rapid expansion has placed an immense strain on its natural resources, particularly water, prompting urgent action from authorities. Despite efforts by the Capital Development Authority (CDA) to manage the situation, the escalating demand for water has become a pressing issue that requires a comprehensive and long-term solution.

The Population Boom: Straining Resources

Over the past two decades, Islamabad's population has more than doubled, causing a significant increase in the demand for water. This surge has put unprecedented pressure on the city’s water resources, including the Simly, Rawal, and Khanpur dams, which have traditionally supplied water to the federal capital. The development of new housing societies to accommodate the influx of people from other cities has only compounded the problem, depleting underground water reserves and exacerbating the effects of climate change.

CDA’s Efforts to Address the Crisis

The CDA has acknowledged the severity of the situation and is working on several initiatives to address the water shortage. Sardar Khan Zimri, Director General of Water Management at the CDA, emphasized the challenges posed by the population growth and the emergence of new settlements. He noted that the Authority is fully aware of its responsibilities and is taking steps to mitigate the crisis.

One of the key measures proposed by the CDA is the construction of two new dams, Shahdra and Chiniot, to supplement the existing water supply. These dams are expected to play a crucial role in meeting the growing demand for water in Islamabad. Additionally, the CDA plans to modernize the city's water distribution network and upgrade sewage treatment plants. These improvements aim to reduce water losses and enhance the overall efficiency of the system, ensuring a more reliable supply of water to residents.

Long-Term Projects and Future Plans

The CDA Board has already approved pre-feasibility studies for the Shahdra and Chiniot dams, signaling a commitment to expedite these projects. In addition, the CDA has requested the Water and Power Development Authority (WAPDA) to conduct a pre-feasibility study for the Dotara Dam, located 41 kilometers upstream of Khanpur Dam. According to Zimri, a gravity tunnel from Dotara Dam via Shahdara could not only provide water but also generate around 10 to 13 megawatts of electricity.

Efforts are also underway to enhance Khanpur Dam’s water storage capacity and address issues of water theft and seepage, which result in significant losses of the capital’s water share. The CDA is determined to secure Islamabad's due share of water, which could potentially supply water to at least 10 more sectors.

In addition to these projects, the CDA plans to resume work on the incomplete water conduction pipeline from the Shah Allah Ditta reservoir to several city sectors. Tenders have already been called for the remaining portions of the project. The CDA Board has also approved amendments to building by-laws to encourage rooftop rainwater harvesting, a measure aimed at promoting water conservation among residents.

Ensuring Clean Drinking Water

To ensure the availability of clean drinking water, the CDA has installed 94 filtration plants across Islamabad. These plants are regularly monitored for quality compliance with World Health Organization (WHO) standards. The installation of these filtration plants is part of a broader effort to provide safe and clean drinking water to the city’s residents.

Moreover, the CDA is undertaking significant long-term projects, such as sourcing water from the Indus River System at Tarbela Dam for Islamabad and Rawalpindi. This project is seen as a vital step towards establishing a reliable source of potable water to meet the growing demand in both cities.

The Impact of Climate Change and Water Scarcity

The increasing population has driven water demand to approximately 120 million gallons per day (MGD), a level that is straining the city’s available resources. The groundwater table, which was around 10 meters deep in the 1960s, has now plummeted to depths of 60 to 120 meters. This drastic decline highlights the severity of the water crisis in Islamabad.

Climate change is further complicating the situation, with changing rainfall patterns making water availability even more unpredictable. Despite an annual average rainfall of about 1,300 mm, Islamabad struggles to meet the high demand for water, leaving residents increasingly concerned about the future.

Residents Call for Urgent Action

The growing water crisis has sparked calls for immediate and comprehensive action from concerned citizens. Maria, a resident of Islamabad and a mother, emphasized the need for timely measures to ensure that future generations can enjoy a better environment with all the necessary basic facilities. Ahmed, another resident, echoed these sentiments, urging the government to take immediate action to address the crisis.

Fatima, a businesswoman who has lived in Islamabad for 20 years, also voiced her concerns, stating that the situation has become dire in recent years and that urgent measures are needed to prevent a full-blown crisis.

The Importance of Water Conservation

While the CDA’s ongoing projects and proposed solutions are critical steps in addressing the water crisis, water conservation remains a shared responsibility. Residents must play their part by avoiding water wastage and using this vital resource responsibly. Without a mechanism to control population growth, it is essential for both civic agencies and residents to work together to ensure the uninterrupted provision of essential services in Islamabad.

Conclusion: A Collaborative Effort Needed

Islamabad's growing population has triggered a water crisis that demands immediate and sustained action. The CDA's initiatives, including the construction of new dams and the modernization of the water distribution network, are crucial steps in the right direction. However, the success of these efforts depends on the cooperation of the city's residents in conserving water and supporting sustainable practices. As Islamabad continues to grow, it is imperative that both the government and the public work together to secure a better future for the capital.

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