Hydropower projects hold utmost importance for govt, says PM

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Imran Khan has reiterated his government’s determination to accord priority status to the swift execution of hydropower projects to address the acute water shortage and energy crisis in the country.

The premier was chairing a meeting organised to assess the construction progress of major hydropower projects including Mohmand Dam, Dasu Hydropower project, Tarbela IV (Extension), and Diamer-Bhasha Dam.

The PM was informed that the construction of Mohmand Dam has been initiated earlier this year, with completion expected by 2024. The project would store 1.2 million acre feet water and produce 800MW electricity.

Meanwhile, the Dasu Hydropower Project Phase-I is slated to begin next year and is also expected to be finalised by 2024, with a projected capacity to generate 2360MW electricity. Furthermore, Phase-II of the same project would be kick-started in 2025 and is estimated to take two years to be completed and produce 2160MW power.

On the other hand, the Diamer-Bhasha Dam’s construction will start next year and is scheduled to be ready by 2027. The expected output of electricity in this project is 4500MW, and storage capacity for water will be 8.1 million acre feet.

Conveying his satisfaction with the speed of progress, the Prime Minister directed relevant ministries to prioritise the resolution of any issues that may hinder the construction and functioning of the hydropower projects.

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