The government has given the green light to the revised cost of the Dasu Hydropower Project (Stage-I), now estimated at Rs. 1.74 trillion. This revised cost has been sent to the Executive Committee of the National Economic Council (ECNEC) for final approval.
The Dasu project, which is an important step toward improving Pakistan’s electricity generation and water security, was initially planned with a cost of Rs. 479 billion. However, over the years, the cost has increased significantly due to various delays, changes in design, and administrative issues. These problems have pushed the total estimated cost to over three times the original figure.
Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal highlighted the project’s importance and stressed that there must be more accountability in large-scale national projects. He criticized the Water and Power Development Authority (WAPDA) for weak management, slow decision-making, and lack of proper oversight, which have caused unnecessary delays and increased costs.
Despite the setbacks, the Dasu Hydropower Project remains a crucial initiative for Pakistan’s future. Once completed, it will produce a large amount of clean and affordable electricity. It will also help with water storage and support the country’s agricultural needs by improving irrigation systems.
The project is part of the government’s broader plan to shift toward renewable energy and reduce dependence on expensive fossil fuels. It will also help reduce power shortages and provide a more stable energy supply to industries and households across the country.
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