CDA Launches Emergency Campaign at Rawal Dam Due to This Major Issue

Oct 16, 2025

CDA Launches Emergency Campaign at Rawal Dam

The Capital Development Authority (CDA) has launched an emergency campaign at Rawal Dam after alarming reports of pollution and encroachments threatening one of Islamabad’s primary sources of drinking water. The move comes in response to growing public concerns and environmental warnings about the deteriorating condition of the dam and its surrounding areas.

The Major Issue: Water Pollution and Encroachments

Rawal Dam supplies water to Islamabad and parts of Rawalpindi, making it one of the most important reservoirs in the region. However, unchecked pollution, illegal construction, and waste disposal around the catchment area have caused serious contamination risks.

Environmental experts warn that untreated sewage from nearby settlements and unregulated activities around the reservoir have been polluting the water. Additionally, illegal farming and commercial encroachments on protected land surrounding the dam have worsened the problem.

The CDA declared this situation an emergency, as rising contamination levels pose a direct threat to public health and the ecological balance of the area.

Details of the Emergency Campaign

According to CDA officials, the campaign involves a multi-step action plan targeting the root causes of the issue:

Action Step	Description	Purpose
Anti-Encroachment Drive	Demolition of illegal structures near the catchment area	Protect dam boundaries and prevent land misuse
Sewage Control	Coordination with local administration to block sewage entry points	Stop untreated waste from mixing into dam water
Waste Management	Installation of disposal units and strict monitoring	Reduce solid waste pollution
Water Quality Testing	Regular sampling and laboratory testing	Ensure safe water supply for citizens
Public Awareness	Campaigns in nearby villages and communities	Educate people about protecting water sources

CDA’s Collaboration with Other Departments

The CDA has also sought the support of the Islamabad Capital Territory Administration, the Water and Sanitation Agency (WASA), and environmental watchdogs. Law enforcement agencies are providing security during the anti-encroachment operations to ensure smooth execution.

In addition, health authorities are being consulted to assess the risks posed by water contamination and to recommend immediate measures for safeguarding residents who rely on Rawal Dam’s water supply.

Impact on Residents

The deteriorating condition of Rawal Dam has been a matter of serious concern for citizens. Reports of foul smell and discoloration of water raised alarms among households dependent on this supply. Complaints of stomach-related illnesses and water-borne diseases in nearby areas further intensified the urgency for government intervention.

The CDA’s emergency campaign has been welcomed by many residents who believe that long-term negligence had allowed the problem to escalate. For families in Islamabad and Rawalpindi, the assurance of cleaner drinking water brings a sense of relief.

Environmental Perspective

Environmental experts have long warned that unchecked urbanization and lack of enforcement around Rawal Dam could lead to an ecological disaster. The dam’s natural ecosystem, including migratory birds and aquatic life, has already been affected by pollution and human interference.

The current campaign is seen as a crucial step toward restoring ecological balance. However, experts emphasize that short-term campaigns must be followed by consistent monitoring and strict policy enforcement.

Public Awareness and Responsibility

While the government’s action is important, authorities stress that citizens must also play their role. Local communities have been urged not to dump waste into streams leading to the dam and to stop illegal farming practices on restricted lands.

Awareness drives will focus on educating residents about the long-term health and environmental risks of polluting water sources. Schools and colleges in the capital city are also expected to participate in awareness walks and clean-up campaigns.

Future Plans for Rawal Dam

The CDA has announced that it will adopt a sustainable water management framework for Rawal Dam. This includes:

Long-term waste treatment projects
Installation of modern filtration plants
Strict zoning regulations to protect catchment areas
Continuous monitoring through satellite and ground inspections

Officials have vowed that Rawal Dam’s protection will be treated as a “national priority” given its importance for Islamabad’s water security.

Conclusion

The launch of CDA’s emergency campaign at Rawal Dam underscores the seriousness of the issue. Pollution, encroachments, and negligence had pushed one of Pakistan’s most vital water reservoirs to the brink of crisis.

With coordinated action, stricter regulations, and greater public awareness, this initiative has the potential to safeguard the health of millions of citizens while protecting the environment for future generations.