Chairman CPEC working for socio-economic development of Pakistan and SAPM on Information and broadcasting Asim Saleem Bajwa announced to start construction of Diamer Bhasha Dam today and said it is historic news for all generations of Pakistan.

He further “a huge stimulus for our economy,create 16500 jobs,generate 4500 MW Hydel Power&irrigate 1.2 m acres agri land,enhance Tarbela Dam’s age by 35 yrs.”

Note that, Pakistan can store only 10 percent of its annual river flows against the world average of 40 percent. Ironically, instead of increasing water storage capacity, Pakistan has lost about one-fourth storage of the dams.

The live water storage capacity that used to be 16.26 million acre feet (MAF) in 1976 has reduced to 13.68 MAF, which equals to only 30 days carry over capacity. India has carry over capacity of 170 days, Egypt 700 days and America 900 days.

The carry over water storage capacity has to be increased from 30 days to 120 days. Likewise, the ratio of low-cost hydel electricity also requires to be drastically improved.

Mohmand Dam, commenced in May 2019, is progressing in accordance with the schedule, and now Asim Bajwa announced the construction on Diamer Basha Dam. Both dams will have a cumulative gross water storage capacity of 9.3 MAF and power generation capacity of 5300 MW.

Also Read: Diamer Basha and Mohmand Dams possess investment opportunities