The Water and Power Development Authority (Wapda) has been directed by the Prime minister to start construction of Diamer-Bhasha dam (DBD) immediately. In this regard an agreement worth Rs. 442 Billion has also been signed with a Joint Venture namely Power China-FWO for construction of diversion system, main dam, Access Bridge and 21 MW-Tangir Hydropower Project.
Construction of Diamer-Bhasha dam will create 16,500 direct and indirect jobs. Cement and other construction materials will be used in huge amounts for the construction of this dam which will help provide the much needed support to the construction and allied industries at this time. Furthermore an area of 1.23 million acres of land will be brought under agriculture due to this dam. DBD will produce 4,500 MW of electricity and add 35 years to the life of Tarbela dam by reducing sedimentation.
Wapda has already awarded consultancy services worth Rs.27.182 billion to Diamer Basha Consultants Group (DBCG). The DBCG comprises of 12 top-ranked national and foreign consulting firms with NESPAK as the lead firm.
The consultancy agreement includes construction design, construction supervision and contract administration of Diamer Bhasha Dam Project.
