ISLAMABAD: The Senate Standing Committee on Economic Affairs has raised serious concerns over inconsistencies in official records related to the Dasu Hydropower Project, while reviewing the progress of the Dasu and Mohmand hydropower schemes.
During a meeting chaired by Senator Saifullah Abro, lawmakers criticized inaccuracies in documents submitted by the Ministry of Economic Affairs. Committee members noted discrepancies regarding the project’s timeline, pointing out that official papers listed 2023 as the signing year, whereas officials stated during the briefing that the project had been underway since 2017.
Representatives of WAPDA informed the committee that the approved cost of the Dasu Hydropower Project stands at Rs1.737 trillion. Upon completion, the project is expected to generate 5,400 megawatts of electricity, making it the largest power-producing facility in the country.
Officials explained that the first phase includes 12 generating units with a combined capacity of 4,300 megawatts, while a second phase will add three more units, each capable of producing 360 megawatts. Construction of the associated 765-kilovolt transmission line is also progressing.
The committee was told that all necessary financing has been secured and that the project currently has adequate funds available. According to officials, physical work has reached 30 percent completion, with the project scheduled to be finished by November 2028.
However, some lawmakers questioned whether the deadline could realistically be met. Officials acknowledged that progress had been affected by two major incidents that caused delays during construction.
The meeting also highlighted concerns about coordination within government institutions. Senator Rubina Khalid criticized what she described as weak communication among departments and stressed the need for greater accountability. She proposed setting strict deadlines for official tasks and suggested disciplinary action against officers who fail to complete assignments within the prescribed timeframe.
The committee emphasized the importance of accurate record-keeping and effective interdepartmental coordination to ensure the timely completion of key national infrastructure projects.
