Water and Power Development Authority (WAPDA) is implementing a number of projects in water and hydropower sectors. These projects, on completion, will not only help increase water storage capacity but also decrease electricity deficit in the country.
This was stated by WAPDA Member (Water) Syed Raghib Abbas Shah, while addressing a delegation of Pakistan Air Force (PAF) War College, Karachi. Delegation, headed by PAF War College Commandant Air Vice Marshal Azher Hasan, visited WAPDA House. WAPDA Secretary Imtiaz Tajwar and senior officers concerned were also present on the occasion.
Member (Water) said initiation of Diamer-Basha Dam, the largest project in the history of Pakistan, is a major breakthrough in water resource development in the country. This roject alone will store 8.1 million acre feet (MAF) of water to supplement irrigation supplies besides generating 4500 megawatt (MW) of low-cost hydel electricity. Some other mega projects, currently in various stages of their implementation, include 7,100 MW Bunji, 1,410 MW Tarbela 4th Extension, 4,500 MW Dasu and 740 MW Munda Hydropower Project, he added. Member (Water) further said a programme of constructing small and medium-sized dams in all four provinces is underway for socio-economic uplift of backward areas. Earlier, WAPDA Hydro Planning General Manager Hasnain Afzal and PEPCO Chief Engineer Farasat Zaman briefed delegation about water and power sector respectively.
Delegation was informed that another 20 million acres of virgin land can be cultivated, subject to availability of water. Delegation was briefed that five hydropower projects with cumulative generation capacity of about 400 MW will start contributing to national grid by 2012. Delegation was apprised of new initiatives of WAPDA related to canal lining, treatment of saline water, application of high efficiency irrigation system, inland water transportation etc.
Delegation was also informed about current situation of power sector including reasons for electricity load-shedding, measures being taken to mitigate power shortages as and receivables and payables of PEPCO. Later, WAPDA Member (Water) and Commandant PAF War College gave souvenirs as memento to visitors.
