Islamabad: The Government of Pakistan is considering the construction of a total of 19 dams, including Kalabagh Dam, to enhance water storage capacity, reported a news source. A source from Ministry of Water Resources said that these projects are at different stages of planning and execution.
More prominent of these projects include Diamer Bhasha Dam, Mohmand Dam, Nai Gaj Dam, Kurran Tangi Dam and Kurran Tangi Dam II, Naulong Dam, Winder Dam, Barra Dam, Akhnorri Dam, Shaivak Dam, Hangole Dam, Bhimbar Dam, Chanute Dam, Badinzai Dam, Tank Dam, Daklaigi Dam, Daraban Dam Saklaigi Dam, Dotarah Dam, and Kalabagh Dam.
Construction of these dams will add water storage capacity of 30 million acre foot (MAF) to the country. According to certain estimates, Pakistan might suffer a water shortfall of 31 MAF by 2025. Ignoring to attend the issue on an immediate basis could result in a crisis sooner than expected.
Earlier this year, the Indus River System Authority (IRSA)’s advisory committee had project 38% water shortage for the agriculture sector and asked the provinces to incorporate a better irrigation system to save water from being wasted and also to monitor water usage.
In a news report shared today, it was revealed that the machinery purchased for Kalabagh Dam will be used for the construction of Diamer Basha Dam and Mohmand Dam. It is expected that the machinery stacked at Mari and Kalabagh will soon be shifted to project site of Diamer Basha and Mohmand Dam. For this purpose, arrangements are being finalised.
