Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi has ordered the preparation of a comprehensive plan for the expansion of Simly Dam, a key water reservoir serving Islamabad. The directive was issued during a high-level meeting on water supply and infrastructure development for the federal capital.
Meeting Details
The meeting, chaired by Naqvi, was attended by officials from the Capital Development Authority (CDA), the Water and Power Development Authority (WAPDA), and other relevant departments. Discussions centered on the growing water demand in Islamabad and the need to enhance storage capacity.
Key Decisions
- Feasibility Study: A detailed study will be conducted to assess the technical and financial viability of expanding Simly Dam.
- Timeline: The study is expected to be completed within three months, after which implementation will commence.
- Funding: The government will allocate funds from the Public Sector Development Programme (PSDP) for the project.
Current Water Situation
Islamabad relies heavily on Simly Dam for its water supply, but rapid urbanization has led to shortages, especially during summer. The dam currently has a storage capacity of 0.045 million acre-feet (MAF), which is insufficient to meet the city's needs.
Expansion Benefits
- Increased Storage: The expansion could raise capacity to 0.07 MAF, providing relief for at least 20 years.
- Improved Supply: Additional water will help reduce the frequency of water cuts and rationing.
- Environmental Impact: The project includes measures to mitigate ecological disruption and preserve the surrounding forest area.
Next Steps
Naqvi directed the CDA to expedite the project and submit the feasibility report by August 2026. He also emphasized the need for transparency and timely completion. The expansion is part of the government's broader strategy to address water security in the region.
