Pakistan's water ambitions sinking in financial chaos as mega projects face generational delays
Islamabad, May 16
Pakistan's key water and hydropower projects are slipping deeper into uncertainty as severe funding shortages and soaring construction expenses continue to stall progress on major infrastructure schemes, as reported by Samaa TV.
According to Samaa TV, the documents paint a troubling picture for the country's long-term water security and energy planning. Several flagship projects, once promoted as solutions to Pakistan's growing water and electricity crises, are now expected to take decades and, in some cases, centuries to complete under the existing pace of financial allocations.
Among the most delayed projects is the Dasu Hydropower Project, whose estimated cost has climbed to nearly Rs 1.74 trillion. Officials have warned that if funding continues at current levels, the project could take around 65 years to finish. Authorities have requested Pakistani Rupees (PKR) 145 billion in the upcoming federal budget to keep construction activities moving.
The Diamer-Bhasha Dam is facing a similarly alarming situation. The project's estimated cost has crossed PKR 1.04 trillion, while proposed funding for the next fiscal year stands at just PKR 93.77 billion. Based on the present allocation pattern, the dam may take roughly 46 years to complete.
The Mohmand Dam project is also struggling under mounting financial pressure. Its estimated cost has surpassed PKR 337 billion, and officials say the project could require another 14 years for completion if the government fails to significantly increase funding support. Urban water supply and irrigation schemes are also suffering major setbacks.
The Kachhi Canal Project could reportedly take more than a century to complete, while Karachi's K-IV water supply scheme may need another decade before becoming operational. The K-IV project alone now carries a price tag exceeding PKR 175 billion, as cited by Samaa TV.
Even more concerning are projections linked to smaller infrastructure schemes. Official estimates suggest the Naulong Dam may require 122 years for completion, while the Chashma Right Bank Canal could astonishingly take nearly 1,900 years under the current financing structure.
A separate flood protection programme worth PKR 194 billion may also remain unfinished for centuries, as reported by Samaa TV.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Honestly, it's a bit scary to see a neighbor struggle so much with basic water infrastructure. But then again, the Indus Waters Treaty gives them a lot of flexibility. Maybe they should focus on small-scale projects instead of these mega dams that take centuries. 🤷♀️
As someone who works in civil engineering, I can tell you that 1900 years for a canal is not just a delay—it's a complete failure of project planning. Even in India, we have issues with cost overruns (like the Polavaram project), but this is next level. They need a complete financial overhaul.
While I feel for the common Pakistani citizen who will suffer water shortages, one can't help but notice the irony. Pakistan often blames India for water issues, but here their own mismanagement is the biggest enemy. Proper governance and economic stability matter more than any treaty.
It's easy to make jokes, but water scarcity is a serious issue for the entire subcontinent. We should hope they find a solution—otherwise, migration pressures and regional instability will affect us too. But yes, their financial planning clearly needs a major course correction. 🌊
I remember reading about the Diamer-Bhasha Dam being a 'game changer' for Pakistan. Now it's a 46-year wait? Compare that to India's Bhakra Nangal or Tehri dams—built in a fraction of the time. This is a cautionary tale about how corruption and fiscal mismanagement can cripple even the best intentions.
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