Islam Headworks is reportedly in distress owing to aging, design deficiencies, constructional defects, hydraulic and mechanical problems, inadequate operation, maintenance, and drastic changes in river morphology as a result of the implementation of the Indus Water Treaty of 1960.

Every September when the flood level rises and India releases a large amount of water, it creates havoc in areas downstream from the headworks.

However, due to a lack of interest, inefficiency at the government level, and an absence of confidence and trust in International Financial Institutions (IFIs), the rehabilitation was postponed.

However, it can be developed into an ecotourism site for those who are interested in the hydrology of the Indus basin and the effect of shortages of water in this part of the world.

The desertification of the area from the nearby Choolistan desert is an interesting phenomenon and the pollution of the river from upstream industry in India is a cause of concern.