TARBELA: Tarbela Dam has reached its maximum capacity for the second consecutive year, a significant milestone for Pakistan’s water and power sectors, with water levels hitting 1,550 feet and storing over 5.8 million acre-feet (MAF) of water.
The Water and Power Development Authority (WAPDA) reported that the dam’s full capacity has necessitated the opening of spillway gates to manage the overflow. An official announcement regarding the dam’s status is expected later today.
This achievement is particularly beneficial for the agricultural and energy sectors, as the stored water will support irrigation nationwide, ensuring uninterrupted agricultural activities in the upcoming seasons. Moreover, the dam will continue to generate hydroelectric power, bolstering the stability of the national grid.
Conversely, the country’s oil and gas production has faced challenges over the past decade, marked by a significant decline due to political instability, security concerns, and insufficient investment in exploration and development. No substantial reserves have been discovered in recent years.
Data from the Pakistan Petroleum Information Service (PPIS) highlights a sharp decline in crude oil production, from 94,500 barrels per day in 2015 to just 70,500 barrels per day in 2024, representing a drop of 24,000 barrels per day over the last decade.
