Rawal Lake capacity shrinks by 37pc

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ISLAMABAD:

Sedimentation has reduced the storage capacity of Rawal Dam by 37 percent, the continuous inflow of silt further reducing its capacity, it has been learnt.

Experts stated that the dam, which is the only reservoir catering to the needs of 3 millions residents of Rawalpindi, had completed its life expectancy.

The authorities are to discharge extra water when it rains, to maintain the storage level. Although the life expectancy had been completed three years ago, authorities have failed to build an alternative reservoir to cater to the needs of Rawalpindi residents who need 25 million gallons of water per day.

“Estimated life expectancy of a small dam stretches for 50 years. Rawal Lake’s life expectancy ended in 2012 and its storage capacity is decreasing by 0.21 per cubic meter a year,” claimed an official.