Rawal Dam supplies water to the twin cities of Islamabad and Rawalpindi. Over time, the dam has lost a lot of its original storage capacity because it has mud, silt and waste. As such, the dam cannot hold enough water for the two cities. Every year, during the monsoon season the dam fills up quickly and the authorities open the spillways to release excess water. This water flows away without being used, while people face water shortages in the dry season.
Before the rains started this year, the dam was almost empty. That was the best time to clean the dam by removing the silt. But the authorities did not take any action at the time. They missed the perfect opportunity to restore the dam and increase its capacity. Subsequently, when the dam exhausted its capacity, the authorities released the pressure by opening the spillways as there was no way of storing the water or making any use of it. This wasted water — perfectly clean and potable — could have been saved through better planning.
One good solution is to build small dams or water tanks around the dam. These can store extra water during the rainy season, and help in times of water shortage. It is also important to regularly clean the dam to keep it working properly.
The government departments responsible for water supply and dam management should take the issue with due seriousness, and work together to manage this critical matter. Climate change is making rains less predictable. We cannot afford to waste rainwater like we have been doing over the years. The dam is an important resource for the twin cities and it must be protected.
The authorities concerned must clean the dam as soon as possible, and take steps to stop water wastage during the monsoon. This will help the people and make the water system more reliable.
MUHAMMAD ANFAL
ISLAMABAD
