ADB Powers Chahan Dam Water Supply Project in Rawalpindi

• Chahan Dam Water Supply Project Receives Rs33.859 Billion Funding from ADB

Introduction

The Chahan Dam Water Supply Project has received a significant funding boost of Rs33.859 billion from the Asian Development Bank (ADB). This project aims to supply an additional 25 million gallons of water daily to Rawalpindi, addressing water shortages and improving the city’s water supply system. Contracts worth Rs20.4 billion have been awarded to Turkish company 5H Insaat, marking a major milestone in the project’s development.

Key Highlights of the Project

1. Funding and Contracts:

   • The ADB has provided Rs33.859 billion in funding for the Chahan Dam Water Supply Project.
   • Contracts for Lot 2 and Lot 3, valued at Rs20.4 billion, were awarded to Turkish company 5H Insaat after a seven-month delay.
   • Lot 1 and Lot 4 contracts have already been awarded, with work underway.

2. Project Scope:

   • Lot 1: Construction of a 12 million gallons per day water treatment plant at Chahan Dam (Rs6.36 billion contract awarded to China Construction Third Engineering Group).
   • Lot 2: Installation of a main pipeline from Chahan Dam to Chak Jalal Din (Rs8.3 billion contract).
   • Lot 3: Development of a distribution network from Chahan Dam to supply water to residents (Rs12.1 billion contract).
   • Lot 4: Upgradation of filtration plants, pumping machinery, and restoration of old water supply lines from Rawal and Khanpur Dams (Rs7.199 billion contract awarded to a joint venture between MS Metra Kan and 5H Insaat).

3. Impact on Rawalpindi:

   • The project will ensure a 24-hour water supply to areas like Khayaban-e-Sir Syed and six union councils along Adiala Road.
   • It will resolve water shortages for 46 union councils in Rawalpindi and six adjacent councils.
   • Operational costs will be reduced, including the elimination of 70-80% of WASA’s tube wells, significantly cutting electricity expenses.

4. Project Leadership:

   • Hamza Salik has been appointed as the project director, with Zeeshan Shaukat Gondal serving as deputy project director at WASA.
   • WASA Managing Director Muhammad Saleem Ashraf confirmed that the project will address water shortages and improve the city’s water infrastructure.

Conclusion
The Chahan Dam Water Supply Project is a transformative initiative for Rawalpindi, funded by the ADB and supported by international and local contractors. With a completion timeline of three years, the project promises to enhance water supply, reduce operational costs, and improve the quality of life for residents. Stay updated on this critical infrastructure development that will shape Rawalpindi’s future.