The Capital Development Authority (CDA) has announced that construction of the Shahdara Dam will begin soon, with the project expected to provide Islamabad with an additional source of water as the capital faces growing demand.
CDA Chairman Sohail Ashraf told Dawn that the authority aims to complete the project within 20 months, faster than the two-year period outlined in the authority’s initial planning.
The dam is expected to supply between 5 million and 10 million gallons of water per day (MGD), subject to final design, technical assessments and operational arrangements.
In a statement published on October 29, the CDA said the project would strengthen Islamabad’s water infrastructure and support long-term water security.
The authority described it as a major step towards expanding the capital’s water resources after decades of planning and consultations.
The CDA has invited firms to participate in the procurement process for the project, with an earlier prequalification notice issued on October 12 and a subsequent corrigendum published on October 27. The project is planned for construction near the Shahdara picnic area.
Shahdara Dam Expected to Ease Islamabad’s Water Shortage
The Shahdara Dam is intended to introduce a new surface-water source into Islamabad’s supply network. Its anticipated contribution of 5–10 MGD could help supplement existing supplies, although the actual amount delivered will depend on the final design and operating arrangements.
In February 2026, the CDA said the Water and Power Development Authority (WAPDA) had completed the feasibility study and shared its report with the authority. The initial assessment included estimates for land acquisition, water conveyance infrastructure and a treatment plant.
The CDA also reported that the dam could provide around 10 MGD of water to Islamabad. The more recent estimate of 5–10 MGD reflects the range stated in the authority’s October announcement.
Residents’ access to the additional supply will depend not only on the dam’s construction but also on the completion of treatment facilities, conveyance pipelines and connections to the existing distribution network.
CDA Plans Four Check Dams Near Margalla Hills
Alongside the Shahdara Dam, the CDA plans to construct four check dams at the foothills of the Margalla Hills. Proposed locations include areas near D-12, Shah Allah Ditta and Saidpur.
The authority has not yet issued tenders for these check dam projects, according to the information provided.
Check dams are generally designed to slow water runoff and help retain water locally. Depending on their design and geological conditions, they can also support groundwater recharge and reduce the rapid loss of rainwater from catchment areas.
The projects form part of a wider effort to improve Islamabad’s water management and reduce pressure on existing sources.
Islamabad to Get 100 Groundwater Recharge Wells
The CDA also plans to begin work on 100 recharge wells to help replenish underground water reserves.
Recharge wells can direct collected rainwater into suitable underground formations, helping restore groundwater levels where local soil and geological conditions permit. Their effectiveness depends on factors such as water quality, the condition of the aquifer and maintenance.
The authority has also identified two additional dam projects. Chinot Dam is planned for the catchment area of Simly Dam, while Dotara Dam is planned for the catchment area of Khanpur Dam.
Together, the proposed dams, check dams and recharge wells are intended to diversify Islamabad’s water sources rather than rely solely on existing supplies.
Construction Timeline and Remaining Work
Although the CDA expects construction of Shahdara Dam to start soon, the project’s overall delivery will depend on the procurement process, final design, land-related requirements and the development of supporting infrastructure.
The authority’s October 29 statement sets a two-year completion target, while Chairman Sohail Ashraf told Dawn that the CDA is aiming for a shorter period of 20 months.
The project’s contribution to Islamabad’s water supply will ultimately depend on timely construction and the readiness of the treatment and distribution systems needed to deliver water to consumers.
The CDA’s official project announcement provides the authority’s latest public update. Its Shahdara Dam procurement notice also documents the formal procurement process.
