How many dams in Pakistan
The dam has played a crucial role in Pakistan’s agricultural and energy sectors, and it continues to be a vital piece of infrastructure in the country. Pakistan has numerous dams, which play a significant role in the country’s water management, agriculture, and power generation.
How many dams in Pakistan?
According to the International Commission on Large Dams, 73 dams and reservoirs in Pakistan are over (49 ft.) in height. There are estimates Pakistan needs to build a minimum of 750 small dams to meet water requirements for its growing local and regional population
List of Dams: Some of the famous dams in Pakistan :
In this blog, you will get a complete list of famous dams in Pakistan.
1-Tarbela Dam
2-Mangla Dam
3-Ghazi Barotha Dam
4- Diamer-Bhasha Dam
5- Chashma Barrage
6- Warsak Dam
7-Hub Dam
8-Rawal Dam
9-Simly Dam
10- Khanpur Dam
1-Tarbela Dam
Tarbela Dam was constructed in the 1960s and completed in the early 1970s as part of the Indus Basin Project, which was a significant water management and development initiative in Pakistan. The project aimed to control and regulate the flow of the Indus River and its tributaries, making water available for irrigation, power generation, and flood control.
It is one of the most significant dams in Pakistan and one of the largest earth-filled dams in the world. It is located on the Indus River in the Haripur District of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, approximately 50 kilometers northwest of Islamabad, the capital city of Pakistan.
Tarbela Dam has several important purposes and functions:
Water Storage:
One of the primary functions of Tarbela Dam is water storage. It has a massive reservoir that can hold a substantial amount of water. This stored water is essential for irrigation, helping to sustain agriculture in the surrounding areas. The dam plays a critical role in ensuring a stable water supply for Pakistan’s agricultural sector, which is vital for the country’s food production.
Hydroelectric Power Generation:
Tarbela Dam is equipped with a hydroelectric power station. It has a significant electricity-generating capacity, which helps meet Pakistan’s energy needs. The power station consists of several units, and it is an important source of electricity for the country.
Flood Control:
The dam also serves as a flood control structure. During times of heavy rainfall or snowmelt, the dam can hold excess water to prevent downstream flooding in the Indus River basin.
2-Mangla Dam
The Mangla Dam is a significant multipurpose reservoir located on the Jhelum River in the Mirpur District of Azad Kashmir, Pakistan. The dam has created a large reservoir that offers recreational opportunities. It is a popular destination for boating, fishing, and picnicking.
The Mangla Dam project was initiated in the 1960s and completed in the mid-1960s. It was built as part of the Indus Basin Project, a comprehensive water management and development program in Pakistan aimed at regulating and using the waters of the Indus River and its tributaries for various purposes, including irrigation, power generation, and flood control.
It is one of the largest dams in Pakistan and serves several essential functions:
Water Storage:
The primary purpose of the Mangla Dam is to store water from the Jhelum River. The stored water is then used for irrigation, supplying water to the agricultural lands in the surrounding areas. This has had a positive impact on agricultural productivity in the region, benefiting the local economy.
Hydroelectric Power Generation:
The dam is equipped with a hydroelectric power station that generates electricity. The power station has a significant capacity and contributes to Pakistan’s energy production, helping to meet the country’s power needs.
Flood Control:
Like many other dams in Pakistan, the Mangla Dam also serves as a flood control structure. During the monsoon season or heavy rainfall, the dam can store excess water, reducing the risk of downstream flooding in the Jhelum River basin.
Recreation:
The construction of the Mangla Dam led to the creation of the Mangla Lake, which has become a significant source of water supply, electricity, and recreation for the region. The dam has had a positive impact on the local economy, agriculture, and the overall development of the area.
3-Ghazi Barotha Dam
The Ghazi Barotha Dam is a notable hydropower project located in Pakistan. It is an integral part of the Ghazi Barotha Hydropower Project, which is designed for electricity generation.
Here are some key details about the Ghazi Barotha Dam and the associated project:
Location:
The Ghazi Barotha Dam is situated on the Indus River in the Attock District of Punjab, Pakistan.
Purpose:
The primary purpose of the Ghazi Barotha Dam is to generate electricity through hydropower. It contributes to Pakistan’s energy production and helps meet the country’s growing demand for electricity.
Capacity:
The Ghazi Barotha Hydropower Project has a total installed capacity of approximately 1,450 megawatts (MW), making it one of the largest hydropower projects in Pakistan. It consists of four powerhouses.
Powerhouses:
The project includes four powerhouses: the Ghazi Barotha Hydropower House, the 500 kV Barotha Substation, the 500 kV Ghazi Substation, and the 500 kV Tarbela Substation. These facilities are responsible for the generation, transmission, and distribution of electricity.
Construction and Operation:
The construction of the Ghazi Barotha Hydropower Project began in the early 2000s, and it became operational in phases. It’s a complex project involving the use of water from the Indus River to produce electricity.
Contribution to Pakistan’s Energy Needs:
The project significantly contributes to Pakistan’s energy supply, particularly during peak demand periods. It helps reduce the country’s reliance on fossil fuels for electricity generation and supports the development of a more sustainable energy mix.
The Ghazi Barotha Hydropower Project is part of Pakistan’s efforts to harness its hydropower potential, reduce energy costs, and promote cleaner energy sources. It has played a crucial role in meeting the country’s electricity demands and improving its energy infrastructure.
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4- Diamer-Bhasha Dam
The Diamer-Bhasha Dam project is part of Pakistan’s broader water and energy development plans. It aims to address the country’s water and energy needs, support agriculture, and provide flood control measures. The project is a significant component of Pakistan’s efforts to harness its water resources for the benefit of its economy and people.
The Diamer-Bhasha Dam is a major multipurpose dam under construction in Pakistan. This dam is planned to be built on the Indus River in the Diamer District of the Gilgit-Baltistan region.
Here are some key details about the Diamer-Bhasha Dam:
Purpose:
The Diamer-Bhasha Dam is a multipurpose project designed to serve several crucial functions, including water storage, flood control, and electricity generation.
Water Storage:
The primary purpose of the dam is to store water from the Indus River. The stored water will be used for irrigation, which is essential for supporting agriculture in the region. It will provide a significant boost to agricultural productivity in Pakistan.
Flood Control:
The dam will also serve as a flood control structure, particularly during the monsoon season when the risk of flooding in the Indus River basin is high. By holding back excess water, the dam will help mitigate the impacts of floods downstream.
Hydropower Generation:
The Diamer-Bhasha Dam is designed to have a substantial hydropower generation capacity, with several power generation units. This will add to Pakistan’s electricity supply, supporting its energy needs and reducing its dependence on fossil fuels.
Reservoir:
The construction of the dam will create a vast reservoir known as the Diamer-Bhasha Lake. This lake is expected to have a significant capacity for storing water.
Construction:
The construction of the Diamer-Bhasha Dam is a major infrastructure project that began in the 2020s. It is expected to be completed in several phases over several years. Once finished, it is projected to be one of the highest concrete-faced rock-fill dams in the world.
5- Chashma Barrage
The Chashma Barrage is an important water management and irrigation structure located in Pakistan. It is situated on the River Indus in the district of Mianwali, Punjab province.
The Chashma Barrage serves multiple purposes, and here are some key details about it:
Water Regulation:
The primary purpose of the Chashma Barrage is to regulate the flow of water in the River Indus. It helps control the water supply to downstream areas and is essential for irrigation.
Irrigation:
The barrage plays a crucial role in providing water for agricultural irrigation in the region. It diverts water from the River Indus into various canals and distributaries, enabling the cultivation of crops in the surrounding areas.
Hydropower Generation:
In addition to its irrigation functions, the Chashma Barrage has a hydropower station. It generates electricity, contributing to Pakistan’s energy production.
Chashma-Jhelum Link Canal:
The Chashma Barrage is also linked to the Chashma-Jhelum Link Canal, which is part of Pakistan’s canal irrigation system. This canal diverts water from the River Indus to the Jhelum River, facilitating irrigation in areas fed by the Jhelum River.
Chashma Nuclear Power Plant:
In proximity to the Chashma Barrage is the Chashma Nuclear Power Plant. The barrage provides cooling water to the power plant, ensuring its efficient operation.
The Chashma Barrage is a vital piece of infrastructure in Pakistan, especially in the context of water resource management and agriculture. It helps ensure a stable water supply for the region, supports the livelihoods of local farmers and contributes to electricity generation. The facility has a significant impact on the agricultural and energy sectors in the area and plays a role in sustaining the local economy.
6- Warsak Dam
The Warsak Dam is a multipurpose dam and reservoir located on the Kabul River in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province of Pakistan, near the city of Peshawar. It serves several important functions and has contributed to the development and economy of the region.
Here are some key details about the Warsak Dam:
Water Storage:
The primary purpose of the Warsak Dam is to store water from the Kabul River. The stored water is essential for irrigation, providing a reliable water supply to the agricultural lands in the surrounding areas, particularly in the Peshawar Valley.
Irrigation:
The Warsak Dam’s reservoir, Warsak Lake, is a key source of irrigation water for agriculture in the Peshawar Valley. It has significantly increased the productivity of the region’s agricultural lands.
Hydropower Generation:
The dam is equipped with a hydroelectric power station that generates electricity. The Warsak Power Station has a capacity of around 243 megawatts, and it contributes to Pakistan’s electricity supply.
Flood Control:
Like many dams, Warsak Dam serves a secondary function of flood control. It can help manage and control the flow of water during periods of heavy rainfall and potential flooding in the Kabul River basin.
Recreation:
The Warsak Dam and its reservoir provide opportunities for recreational activities such as boating, fishing, and picnicking for the local population.
The Warsak Dam was completed in the 1960s and has since played a significant role in the development of the Peshawar Valley and the surrounding region. It has helped boost agricultural productivity, provided a source of clean energy, and offered recreational opportunities for the local community. Additionally, the dam has contributed to flood control efforts, helping to mitigate the risk of flooding in the area.
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7-Hub Dam
The Hub Dam, also known as the Hub River Dam, is a reservoir located in the Balochistan province of Pakistan, near the town of Hub in the Lasbela District. It serves multiple purposes and provides various benefits to the region.
Here are some key details about the Hub Dam:
Water Storage:
The primary function of the Hub Dam is to store water from the Hub River. The reservoir helps in water storage and management, which is essential for irrigation and sustaining the agricultural lands in the vicinity.
Irrigation:
The stored water from the Hub Dam is used for irrigation purposes. It provides water to the agricultural lands in the surrounding areas, supporting crop cultivation and enhancing agricultural productivity.
Drinking Water Supply:
The Hub Dam also serves as a source of drinking water for the nearby town of Hub and the surrounding communities. It provides clean and potable water for residents.
Recreation:
The dam and its reservoir offer recreational opportunities for the local population. People visit the area for picnicking, boating, and enjoying the scenic beauty of the surroundings.
The Hub Dam has played a vital role in improving the living conditions of the local communities by providing a reliable source of water for both agriculture and domestic use. It contributes to food security and economic development in the region. Additionally, the recreational opportunities provided by the dam make it a popular spot for residents to unwind and enjoy leisure activities.
8-Rawal Dam
The Rawal Dam is a small reservoir located on the outskirts of Islamabad, the capital city of Pakistan. It is surrounded by beautiful Margalla hills. It serves as one of the primary sources of potable water for the city and its surrounding areas.
Here are some key facts about Rawal Dam:
Location:
Rawal Dam is situated in the Margalla Hills National Park, in the vicinity of Islamabad, Pakistan. It’s approximately 8 kilometers from the city center.
Purpose:
The primary purpose of Rawal Dam is to supply drinking water to the residents of Islamabad and to support irrigation and other water-related needs in the region.
Capacity:
The dam has a relatively small capacity compared to other major dams, holding around 47,500 acre-feet (58.6 million cubic meters) of water.
Catchment Area:
The reservoir is fed by the seasonal flow of various small streams and rivulets in the catchment area, which includes parts of the Margalla Hills and the surrounding region.
Recreation:
The area around Rawal Dam is a popular spot for picnics and outdoor activities. It offers a serene and scenic environment, making it a favored destination for nature lovers and visitors seeking some respite from the city’s hustle and bustle.
Biking and Hiking:
The Margalla Hills National Park, where Rawal Dam is located, also provides numerous hiking and biking trails for outdoor enthusiasts. These trails offer a chance to enjoy the natural beauty of the area.
Wildlife:
The surrounding hills and the park itself are home to a variety of wildlife, including birds, monkeys, leopards, and more. It’s a great place for bird-watching and wildlife enthusiasts.
Conservation:
Efforts are made to conserve the dam’s catchment area and maintain the water quality to ensure a continuous and clean water supply to Islamabad.
Overall, Rawal Dam serves as an important reservoir for Islamabad, providing a valuable source of fresh water while also offering recreational and natural attractions to residents and tourists.
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9-Simly Dam
The water stored in this dam is fed by the melting snow & natural springs of Murree Hills. It was developed by the Capital Development Authority. Planning for the dam began in 1962 and it was not completed when expected in 1972 due to project delays. It was completed in 1983.
Simly Dam is another important reservoir located in the vicinity of Islamabad, Pakistan.
Here are some key details about Simly Dam:
Location:
Simly Dam is an 80-meter (260 ft.) high earthen embankment dam on the Soan River, 30 kilometers east of Islamabad and Rawalpindi in Rawalpindi District, Punjab, Pakistan. It is the largest reservoir of drinking water for people living in Islamabad, the capital of Pakistan.
Simly Dam is situated in the Haripur District of the Punjab province, not far from the federal capital, Islamabad. It is one of the primary sources of drinking water for the city.
Purpose:
The primary purpose of Simly Dam, similar to Rawal Dam, is to supply potable water to the residents of Islamabad and its surrounding areas. It also serves agricultural and industrial water requirements.
Capacity:
Simly Dam is a larger reservoir compared to Rawal Dam, with a capacity of approximately 32,000 acre-feet (39.5 million cubic meters) of water.
Catchment Area:
The dam is primarily fed by various small streams and rivulets originating in the hills and the catchment area around it. These streams flow into the reservoir, ensuring a steady water supply.
Recreation:
The area around Simly Dam is known for its natural beauty and serene environment. It has become a popular spot for picnics, boating, and outdoor activities for the residents of Islamabad. The surrounding hills offer hiking and trekking opportunities.
Wildlife:
The region around Simly Dam is home to diverse wildlife, and visitors can often spot various bird species, monkeys, and other animals. Bird watching and wildlife photography are popular activities in the area.
Conservation:
Efforts are made to conserve the catchment area of Simly Dam to maintain water quality and ensure a continuous supply of clean water to Islamabad.
Simly Dam, like Rawal Dam, plays a crucial role in providing freshwater to Islamabad and offers a beautiful recreational environment for both residents and tourists to enjoy the natural beauty of the region.
10- Khanpur Dam
Khanpur Dam is a significant reservoir and dam located in the Attock District of Punjab, Pakistan.
Here are some key details about Khanpur Dam:
Location:
Khanpur Dam is situated about 48 kilometers from the city of Islamabad, the capital of Pakistan. It is in the Potohar Plateau region, close to the town of Khanpur in the Attock District.
Purpose:
The primary purpose of the Khanpur Dam is to store water from the Haro River and provide a reliable source of drinking water to the twin cities of Islamabad and Rawalpindi. It also serves for irrigation, fish farming, and recreational activities.
Capacity:
Khanpur Dam is relatively large compared to other reservoirs in the area, with a storage capacity of around 79,600 acre-feet (98 million cubic meters) of water.
Catchment Area:
The dam’s reservoir is fed by the Haro River and its tributaries, which drain a significant area in the Potohar Plateau. The catchment area helps maintain a steady water supply to the dam.
Recreation:
Khanpur Dam and its surrounding areas offer a range of recreational activities, including boating, fishing, picnicking, and camping. It has become a popular destination for residents of Islamabad and Rawalpindi looking to escape the city for a day of relaxation and fun.
Water Sports:
The dam is a hub for various water sports and activities, including sailing, jet skiing, and paddle boating. Several water sports competitions and events are also held here.
Wildlife:
The region around Khanpur Dam is rich in biodiversity and provides a habitat for various bird species and wildlife. Birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts often visit to observe the local flora and fauna.
Conservation:
Efforts are made to protect and manage the catchment area and the water quality to ensure a continuous and clean water supply to Islamabad and Rawalpindi.
Khanpur Dam plays a vital role in providing drinking water to the twin cities and offers a wide range of recreational and outdoor activities for the public. It serves as a popular getaway spot for residents and tourists alike, with its picturesque surroundings and diverse recreational opportunities.
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