Taunsa Barrage
Taunsa Barrage is located on the Indus River in Taunsa District, Punjab, Pakistan. It was completed in 1958 and is one of the largest irrigation projects in the country. The barrage helps regulate the flow of the Indus River and provides water for irrigation to the surrounding areas, allowing for increased agricultural productivity.
It also serves as a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors who come to enjoy the scenic views and engage in activities such as fishing and boating. Additionally, the barrage plays an important role in flood control, helping to prevent damage to the surrounding communities during times of heavy rainfall and flooding.
Background and Key Features
The barrage is located near Taunsa City, about 20 kilometers southeast of Taunsa. And around 16 kilometers from Kot Addu in the Muzaffargarh and Dera Ghazi Khan region. Construction of the barrage began in 1952 and it was completed in 1958. Measuring approximately 1,325 meters in length, it has a discharge capacity of up to 1 million cusecs. The barrage plays a vital role in irrigation and water management, serving about 2.35 million acres (nearly 950,000 hectares) of farmland. It also diverts flows through the Taunsa-Panjnad Link Canal, while supporting flood control, supplying drinking water to rural areas, and sustaining agriculture in southern Punjab.
Ecological & Wildlife Significance
Wildlife Sanctuary & Ramsar Site
The area around Taunsa Barrage is officially designated as Taunsa Barrage Wildlife Sanctuary under the Punjab Wildlife Act (1972). And is a Ramsar Wetland of International Importance since 22 March 1996.
Flora & Fauna
Riverine forest, aquatic plants and vegetation in ponds and lakes created by the barrage embankments. Aquatic life includes many fish species. Also supports mammals (e.g., hog deer, smooth-coated otter), reptiles, birds, etc. Birdlife is rich: both resident and migratory birds (waterfowl, shorebirds, cranes) use the sanctuary for breeding, staging, and wintering. Over 150 species recorded in surveys; includes globally threatened species.
Indus River Dolphin: The area (Taunsa + Chashma stretches) is part of the Chashma and Taunsa Barrage Dolphin Sanctuary. This is one of the places where the endangered Indus River Dolphin can be seen.
Recent Developments & Conservation Efforts
Rehabilitation Project
Taunsa Barrage was identified as highly vulnerable due to sedimentation, erosion, and aged infrastructure. The Government of Pakistan, with assistance (e.g., the World Bank), has undertaken rehabilitation efforts to maintain its structural integrity and ensure continued irrigation flow.
Tourism & Recreation Development
An eco-theme park has been approved with facilities like a boat jetty, camping, a walking track, a restaurant, public toilets, etc., to enhance the visitor experience. Cost estimated ~Rs 120-130 million after redesign. TDCP (Tourism Development Corporation Punjab) has also proposed an island resort near Taunsa Barrage. It would involve boat access, huts, tent villages, etc. A multi-facility recreational park has also been planned near the barrage, including parking, campsites, a boat safari, and a fishing area.
Management Plan for Wildlife Sanctuary
The provincial government and WWF have developed a management plan to address threats like habitat degradation, illegal hunting/poaching, overfishing, and encroachment. Budget allocated (e.g., about Rs 110 million for 2014-16) for improving management of the wildlife sanctuary.
Anti-Encroachment Action
Recent efforts to retrieve lands reserved for pond/wetland areas, prevent illegal agriculture in wetland zones, and protect flora and fauna, especially during floods.