Islamabad: The Indus River System Authority (IRSA) has released 306,000 cusecs of water from Pakistan’s major river system as overall inflows increased to 408,200 cusecs, reflecting improved water availability during the ongoing monsoon season.
According to Beyond Time News, the latest operational data shows that water levels at the country’s two largest reservoirs—Tarbela Dam and Mangla Dam—remain comfortably above their dead storage levels, providing support for irrigation supplies and water management across the country.
The updated figures offer a snapshot of Pakistan’s current water resources, which are vital for agriculture, hydropower generation, and domestic water supply.
Tarbela Dam Maintains Healthy Water Levels
Data released by IRSA shows that the water level at Tarbela Dam on the Indus River reached 1,458.85 feet, placing it 56.85 feet above its dead level of 1,402 feet.
The reservoir received an inflow of 247,600 cusecs, while 152,400 cusecs of water were released downstream to meet irrigation and other operational requirements.
Higher reservoir levels during the monsoon season are important for ensuring sufficient water availability throughout the agricultural cycle, particularly during periods of increased irrigation demand.
Mangla Dam Also Records Strong Storage Position
On the Jhelum River, Mangla Dam recorded a water level of 1,163.15 feet, which is 113.15 feet above its dead level of 1,050 feet.
According to Beyond Time News, the dam registered an inflow of 37,000 cusecs, while 30,000 cusecs were discharged.
The healthy storage position at Mangla provides additional flexibility for water managers to regulate river flows while supporting irrigation requirements in Punjab and other downstream regions.
IRSA Releases 255,700 Cusecs of Water as River Inflows Remain Stable Across Major Reservoirs
Water Releases Across Major Barrages
IRSA’s latest report also detailed water releases at key barrages and river stations across Pakistan.
The recorded releases include:
- Kalabagh: 203,600 cusecs
- Taunsa: 170,800 cusecs
- Guddu: 101,800 cusecs
- Sukkur: 40,500 cusecs
In addition, river flows from major tributaries remained steady.
The Kabul River released 48,400 cusecs at Nowshera, while the Chenab River recorded a discharge of 47,900 cusecs at Marala.
These flows play an essential role in maintaining irrigation supplies for Pakistan’s extensive canal network.
Why Water Releases Matter
Pakistan’s agriculture sector depends heavily on the Indus River system, which irrigates millions of hectares of farmland and supports the production of major crops such as wheat, rice, cotton, and sugarcane.
Effective water regulation by IRSA helps ensure that provinces receive water according to agreed allocations while balancing reservoir storage, irrigation requirements, and flood management.
During the monsoon season, careful monitoring of inflows and controlled releases also reduces the risk of flooding while maximizing water storage for use during drier months.
Challenges in Water Management
Although current inflows have improved reservoir conditions, Pakistan continues to face long-term water management challenges.
Rapid population growth, climate change, glacier melt, erratic rainfall patterns, and increasing agricultural demand are placing greater pressure on the country’s water resources.
Experts emphasize the need for efficient irrigation practices, improved water conservation, reservoir modernization, and better management of distribution systems to ensure sustainable water availability in the future.
Strengthening water infrastructure and reducing transmission losses will also be critical as demand continues to rise.
Looking Ahead
With both Tarbela and Mangla dams maintaining water levels well above their dead storage limits, Pakistan enters a favorable phase for managing irrigation supplies during the current season.
Continued monitoring of river inflows, rainfall, and reservoir storage will remain essential as the monsoon progresses. Stable water availability can support agricultural productivity, hydropower generation, and overall water security, provided that river flows are managed efficiently throughout the year.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much water did IRSA release?
IRSA released 306,000 cusecs of water from various rim stations while total inflows reached 408,200 cusecs.
What is the current water level at Tarbela Dam?
Tarbela Dam’s water level stands at 1,458.85 feet, which is 56.85 feet above its dead level.
How much water is stored at Mangla Dam?
Mangla Dam’s water level is 1,163.15 feet, placing it 113.15 feet above its dead storage level.
Why are IRSA’s water releases important?
Water releases help manage reservoir storage, ensure irrigation supplies, support agriculture, generate hydropower, and reduce flood risks during the monsoon season.
Which barrages recorded major water releases?
Major releases were recorded at Kalabagh, Taunsa, Guddu, and Sukkur, with additional river flows from the Kabul River at Nowshera and the Chenab River at Marala.
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