The total generation capacity of the Tarbela Hydropower Station would raise to 4828 MW after the installation of 1350 MW units as a part of fourth extension project. This was stated by Pakistan Water and Power Development Authority (WAPDA) Chairman Shakil Durrani during his visit to the project. Terming it a significant development, Durrani said the consultants, engaged for preparation of a detailed engineering design, had established in their findings that three turbines of 450 MW each could be installed instead of two turbines of 480 MW each, as envisaged in a study conducted earlier in 90s. He said the independent panel of international experts had also endorsed these findings which was a good omen in view of the increasing requirements of electricity in the country.
Earlier, the WAPDA chairman visited Tunnel No 4 and proposed site of the powerhouse. He also inspected the recently rehabilitated Unit No 4, with financial assistance of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). It is pertinent to mention that Tarbela 4th Extension Hydropower Project is a part of least-cost energy generation plan, being implemented by WAPDA to harness indigenous hydropower resources of the country with a view to improving the ratio of hydel electricity in the national grid.