CDA Targets 20-Month Completion and Plans to Add Up to 10 Million Gallons of Water Daily
Islamabad’s Shahdara Dam project is moving towards construction as the Capital Development Authority (CDA) works to address the capital’s growing water shortage.
The CDA has invited construction firms to take part in the prequalification process for the project. The dam is planned near the Shahdara picnic area in Islamabad and will introduce a new source of surface water into the city’s supply network.
CDA Chairman Sohail Ashraf has said the authority aims to complete the project within 20 months, although the initial planning timeline allows two years.
How Much Water Will the Dam Provide?
According to the CDA, Shahdara Dam is expected to supply around 5 to 10 million gallons of water per day (MGD). The final amount will depend on the detailed design, technical assessments and operating arrangements.
The project could help reduce the gap between Islamabad’s water demand and the supply available from existing sources, which include Simly Dam, Khanpur Dam and tubewells.
Recent reporting estimates the capital’s daily water demand at around 250 MGD, while CDA supplies approximately 70 MGD. This leaves a significant shortfall for residents and businesses.
Project Cost and Construction Timeline
A feasibility study cited in a National Assembly document estimated the project cost at around Rs3.62 billion. This is a feasibility-stage estimate; the final approved cost may differ as the design and project arrangements are completed.
The CDA has also revised the bidding schedule for the prequalification process, with the bid submission and opening date moved to November 10, 2026.
More Water Projects Planned
The CDA is also planning four check dams near the foothills of the Margalla Hills and 100 groundwater recharge wells to help replenish underground water reserves. Tenders for the check dams and recharge wells had not yet been issued in the latest reports.
Shahdara Dam is intended to be an important part of Islamabad’s long-term water planning. However, residents will see the benefit only after construction, water treatment and connections to the supply network are completed.
