The Water and Power Development Authority (WAPDA) has signed an agreement to launch livelihood development schemes worth nearly Rs973 million for communities in the Diamer Basha Dam project area.

This leads to another step in the project’s broader socio-economic development program linked to one of the country’s largest hydropower and water storage initiatives, Gwadar Pro reported on Friday.

The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed on Thursday between the Diamer Basha Dam Project of the Water and Power Development Authority (WAPDA) and the District Administration of Diamer to implement projects valued at Rs972.571 million under the project’s Confidence Building Measures (CBMs).

The agreement was signed by General Manager and Project Director of the Diamer Basha Dam Project, Dr. Engr. Nazakat Hussain, and Deputy Commissioner Diamer Lt. Muhammad Owais Abbasi (Retd.), in the presence of Gilgit-Baltistan Chief Secretary Arshad Majeed.

Under the agreement, the livelihood initiatives will be carried out through relevant government departments under the supervision of the Diamer district administration and in consultation with local communities.

According to officials, a joint oversight committee comprising representatives from the district administration, WAPDA, and the local community will monitor implementation and ensure the quality of the development schemes.

The latest package forms part of a much larger socio-economic development program attached to the Diamer Basha Dam Project. WAPDA has earmarked Rs78.5 billion for community welfare and development in the project area, according to official figures.

Authorities said several major public infrastructure projects financed under the program have already been completed, including the Thore Hydel Power Station, Thak Hydel Power Station, and Cadet College Chilas.

The Diamer Basha Dam, being constructed on the Indus River, is expected to enhance the country’s water storage capacity, increase hydroelectric power generation, and contribute to long-term water and energy security while supporting development in surrounding communities.

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