Sindh is experiencing a critical water shortage as both the Tarbela and Mangla dams have hit their dead levels, raising concerns for irrigation needs ahead of the Kharif crop season.
Officials report that the province is currently facing a 50% water shortfall, with Sukkur Barrage seeing the most severe reduction.
With Mangla Dam dropping to 1,050 feet and Tarbela hovering just above its dead level, authorities warn that agricultural lands in Sindh may struggle to receive sufficient water. The Indus River System Authority (IRSA) has described the situation as a seasonal occurrence but is set to review water availability in early April.
Farmers are particularly worried about mango orchards, which are at the fruit formation stage and require steady water supply. Shortages in canals feeding agricultural lands, including the Nara and Rohri canal systems, have left many growers struggling.
Cotton farmers, who rely on early water supply for proper crop development, are also facing difficulties.
The crisis may also affect banana, sugarcane, and vegetable crops, potentially leading to economic losses for farmers. As concerns grow, stakeholders are calling for urgent measures to manage water distribution and mitigate the impact on Sindh’s agriculture.
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