WB Executive Directors Make Historic Visit to Tarbela Dam: A Groundbreaking Milestone in Pakistan’s Hydropower Revolution
orld Bank executive directors visit Tarbela Dam, reviewing its 4th Extension and ongoing 5th Extension Hydropower Project, boosting Pakistan’s energy sector.
HARIPUR: A high-level delegation of executive directors from the World Bank visited the Tarbela Dam on Tuesday. The delegation inspected the operational Tarbela 4th Extension and assessed progress on the under-construction Tarbela 5th Extension Hydropower Project. This visit underscored the World Bank’s continued support for Pakistan’s sustainable energy initiatives.
WAPDA and World Bank: Over Six Decades of Partnership
WAPDA Chairman Engr Lt-Gen (Retd) Sajjad Ghani accompanied the delegation, along with other senior officials. He emphasized that the World Bank and WAPDA have been partners in progress for more than sixty years, driving Pakistan’s hydropower and water resource development.
“We are confident that the World Bank will continue supporting WAPDA for Pakistan’s progress through the development of hydro resources,” stated Chairman Ghani.
Tarbela Dam’s Impact on Pakistan’s Economy and Energy Sector
The delegation was briefed on Tarbela Dam’s substantial contributions to Pakistan’s economic and social development since its completion in 1974:
- Water Storage & Agriculture: Tarbela Dam has released approximately 411 million acre-feet (MAF) of stored water, significantly benefiting agriculture.
- Power Generation: The dam has provided 597,309 million units of low-cost, eco-friendly hydropower to the national grid.
- Largest Power Facility: With an installed capacity of 4,888 MW, Tarbela is Pakistan’s largest electricity generation facility, contributing 6% of WAPDA’s total hydropower capacity.
Tarbela 5th Extension: Expanding Pakistan’s Clean Energy Capacity
The Tarbela 5th Extension Hydropower Project, currently under construction, will further enhance the dam’s capacity:
- Projected Installed Capacity: 6,418 MW upon completion.
- Expected Completion Date: 2026.
- Funding: Supported by the World Bank, which has invested $390 million in the project.
The Tarbela 4th Extension, completed in 2018, is recognized as the World Bank’s flagship project in Pakistan. Since its commissioning, it has added 27,531 million units of electricity to the national grid.
Dasu Hydropower Project: Another Key Development
The World Bank delegation was also briefed on the Dasu Hydropower Project, a significant hydropower initiative currently under construction:
- Financial Support: The World Bank is funding the project with $1.588 billion.
- Construction Progress: Work is underway on 13 key sites.
- Expected Power Generation Start: 2026.
Delegation’s Appreciation and Future Commitment
The World Bank delegation commended WAPDA for its crucial role in enhancing economic stability and sustainable energy production through efficient hydropower project execution. The Tarbela Hydel Power Station, its 4th Extension, and the 5th Extension Hydropower Project stand as testaments to this long-standing collaboration.
Conclusion: A Step Forward in Energy Security
The visit of the World Bank’s executive directors to Tarbela Dam reaffirms Pakistan’s commitment to clean energy development. With continued support from global partners, WAPDA remains at the forefront of Pakistan’s hydropower advancements, ensuring energy security and economic growth.
