Islamabad: Senator Shahadat Awan, Chairman of the Senate Standing Committee on Water Resources, presided over a detailed briefing on the Pakistan Water and Power Development Authority’s (WAPDA) ongoing and upcoming projects, highlighting the substantial contributions to the country’s infrastructure.

According to Senate of Pakistan, WAPDA has played a pivotal role since 1958, completing 15 dams, 23 hydropower plants, 14 thermal power plants, and numerous other critical infrastructure projects, contributing 31% to Pakistan’s power capacity. The briefing covered significant accomplishments such as the Tarbela Dam, Mangla Dam, and Chashma Barrage, which together generate around 6,142 MW. Current projects like the Diamer Basha Dam and the Dasu Hydropower are set to significantly increase power output and irrigation capabilities, providing substantial employment opportunities in the process.

However, the meeting also addressed issues with pending audit paras concerning WAPDA, with Senator Awan urging the Ministry of Water Resources to resolve these long-standing audit discrepancies within ten days. The discussion emphasized the importance of transparency and accountability in handling the audit findings related to financial mismanagement.

In attendance were several key senators and officials, including the Secretary for the Ministry of Water Resources and the Chairman of WAPDA, demonstrating the committee’s comprehensive approach to overseeing water and power development in the nation.