ISLAMABAD, Oct 5: The Ministry of Water and Power has estimated about 5.5 million acres feet (MAF) of water availability in the early part of Rabi, meaning a 50 per cent water shortage over the season.

Water and Power Ministry sources told Dawn on Tuesday that the total availability of water increased to 5.5 MAF on Tuesday, as compared to a projection of 5.3 MAF made last week by the Indus River System Authority (Irsa). At 5.3 MAF, Irsa had estimated about 56 per cent water shortage during the season.

The sources said that recent rains were sufficient for wheat sowing in Sindh and hence it would also provide some cushion for slightly higher water availability. Irsa has convened a meeting of its advisory committee on Oct 9 (Saturday) to finalise Rabi Water Distribution plan.