The Water and Power Development Authority (WAPDA) advanced community development efforts under the Dasu Hydropower Project (DHPP) with the launch of new school infrastructure in Upper Kohistan.

A groundbreaking ceremony was held in Seo village for the construction of buildings for a government high school and a government primary school, with a combined estimated cost of 640 million rupees, Gwadar Pro reported on Thursday.

The schools are being developed under the Local Area Development Program of the DHPP, a flagship hydropower initiative that also includes social investment aimed at improving conditions in surrounding communities.

According to WAPDA, the new institutions will feature modern classrooms, science and computer laboratories, a multipurpose hall and staff rooms, designed to provide a contemporary learning environment.

The ceremony was attended by DHPP General Manager Ameer Shafiqur Rehman, Deputy Commissioner Upper Kohistan Azizullah Jan, senior WAPDA and district officials, along with local elders, political and social representatives, teachers and students.

Officials said the project reflects WAPDA’s commitment to promoting education alongside infrastructure development, particularly in remote areas impacted by large-scale energy projects.

Under the DHPP, WAPDA has undertaken multiple initiatives for socio-economic uplift, including establishing computer laboratories, providing furniture and solar systems to schools, offering transportation services for students and awarding scholarships.

Authorities added that projects related to road infrastructure and healthcare have also been completed in the area, with several others currently under implementation.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP) — Pak-China