In an official letter, IRSA has introduced new water distribution regulations, highlighting a potential 30 to 35 per cent water shortage for the remaining Rabi season.

According to IRSA, provincial irrigation departments have been directed to take immediate measures to manage the crisis.

The advisory notes that until significant rainfall occurs, the situation is unlikely to improve.

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Punjab has already faced a 20 per cent water shortage this season, while Sindh has endured a 16 per cent shortfall.

The IRSA letter further states that Sindh is currently receiving 25,000 cusecs of water against a demand of 27,000 cusecs, while Punjab is getting 40,000 cusecs despite a requirement of 45,000 cusecs.

Officials caution that if the dry spell continues, Mangla and Tarbela dams could reach dead levels within three to four days.

According to WAPDA, the dead level for Tarbela Dam is 1,402 feet, and for Mangla Dam, it is 1,050 feet.

Currently, Tarbela’s water level stands at 1,409.50 feet, while Mangla’s level is at 1,088.45 feet — both dangerously close to depletion.