Rabi season: IRSA approves 22pc shortage for Punjab, Sindh
ISLAMABAD: The Indus River System Authority (IRSA) Advisory Committee on Tuesday reviewed the anticipated water availability for the Rabi season from Oct 1 to March 31, 2027 and approved 22 percent shortage for both Punjab and Sindh. In a statement, the authority said, “Based on the agreed inflows and other system operational parameters, overall system shortage worked out as 22 percent for both…
On Tuesday, the Indus River System Authority (IRSA) Advisory Committee deliberated on the anticipated water availability for the Rabi season, which spans from October 1, 2026 to March 31, 2027. The committee decided to approve a 22 percent shortage for both Punjab and Sindh. The IRSA clarified that this shortage was determined based on the agreed inflows and other operational parameters, and it may be reviewed periodically by the authority.
The expected provincial withdrawals, which were slightly higher than the 10-year average, were set at 29.183 Million Acre Feet (MAF). The meeting, chaired by Amjad Saeed, Member IRSA (Punjab)/Chairman IRSA, included representatives from IRSA, Chief Engineering Advisor of MoWR, members of WAPDA's Water & Power Wings, provincial irrigation department secretaries, senior officials, and technical personnel.
The committee also assessed the Kharif 2026 season, finding that actual inflows were below expectations, averages, and the previous year's inflows. During the Late Kharif period, Punjab and Sindh utilized additional flood supplies. Storage levels at the end of September 2026 were lower than anticipated. The committee reviewed anticipated water availability for the Rabi season, approved an inflow estimate of 21.268 MAF, and discussed the progress of ongoing projects related to WAPDA's T4 LLO and T5 HPP.
The IAC also approved the temporary closure of Chashma Barrage from December 26, 2026 to January 14, 2027, as it aligns with the provincial annual canal closure programs.
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