Tarbela Dam Hits Maximum Capacity, NDMA Orders Opening of Spillways

Pakistan’s Tarbela Dam has reached full capacity, while Mangla Dam is currently at 74 percent, raising the likelihood that excess water will soon be released. According to officials, Tarbela’s water level has touched its maximum conservation mark of 1,550 feet. With inflows still increasing, the Water and Power Development Authority (WAPDA) may be forced to open the spillways to ensure dam safety and prevent overflow.

Authorities have cautioned that once the spillways are opened, areas downstream could face potential flooding. Emergency response teams have been placed on high alert.

The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has confirmed that Tarbela’s spillways will be opened today at around 12:30 PM, releasing an estimated 250,000 cusecs of water into the Indus River. The agency has advised residents in low-lying and riverside settlements to remain vigilant and avoid approaching waterways.

All relevant departments have been notified in advance, while NDMA has directed the local administrations to coordinate closely and ensure safety measures. Residents have also been urged to cooperate with authorities to minimize risks.

Tarbela, the world’s largest earth-filled dam, is located on the Indus River in Haripur, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Built in 1976, it plays a crucial role in irrigation, hydroelectric power generation, and flood management. The dam has a current generation capacity of 4,888 MW, which will increase to 6,418 MW after the completion of its fifth extension, supported by the World Bank and AIIB, making it one of the largest hydropower projects globally.