Water supply from Rawal Dam to Rawalpindi will remain reduced by up to 50 percent from January 1 to January 11, 2026 due to scheduled cleaning and repair work on the dam’s canal system. The Water and Sanitation Agency Rawalpindi said the temporary reduction is necessary to improve infrastructure reliability and ensure uninterrupted supply in the long term.
As a result of the reduced supply, several areas of the city are expected to face partial water shortages. Affected localities include Committee Chowk, Raja Bazaar, Purana Qila, Mohan Pura, Bagh Sardaran, Dhoke Mangtal, Arya Mohalla and surrounding neighborhoods. However, water supply from Khanpur Dam and groundwater sources through tube wells will continue as normal to mitigate the impact.
According to a joint plan approved by the Small Dams Organisation and Wasa Rawalpindi, maintenance work will be carried out in phases. From January 1 to January 3, repairs and desilting will be undertaken on the main canal, followed by maintenance of the right and left bank canals from January 3 to January 11. During this period, the supply of raw water from Rawal Dam to Wasa will remain partially affected.
Wasa Rawalpindi has made alternative arrangements to manage the situation. These include enhanced water supply from Khanpur Dam, maximum utilisation of tube wells and provision of water through bowsers where required. The agency will also ensure continuous operation of mini filtration plants across the city to provide safe drinking water to residents.
Managing Director Wasa Muhammad Saleem Ashraf has directed water supply officers and field staff to ensure uninterrupted distribution through alternative sources. He has also instructed teams to promptly repair tube wells, address public complaints without delay and take strict action against water wastage to ensure fair distribution across all areas.
Wasa has appealed to citizens to cooperate during the maintenance period by using water responsibly. Residents have been urged to avoid washing vehicles, floors and lawns and to prevent unnecessary water wastage. For complaints, emergencies or water bowser requests, citizens can contact Wasa Rawalpindi field offices or the helpline at 1334. Authorities aim to restore full supply from Rawal Dam immediately after January 11.
