Rawalpindi and Islamabad are experiencing a major water shortage as key reservoirs—Rawal, Simly, and Khanpur Dams—reach critically low levels due to prolonged dry weather. Authorities have warned that the cities may run out of water in just 40 to 45 days, with rationing expected to begin by mid-May. In Rawalpindi, the crisis is worsening as underground water levels have dropped below 700 feet, severely affecting tube well operations. To tackle the emergency, WASA has launched a strict Water Control Plan, banning non-essential usage like car washing, lawn irrigation, and construction. The agency is also cracking down on water theft and unpaid bills to ensure better management of the limited supply.