The chairman of the Water and Power Development Authority (WAPDA) is set to visit the Tarbela Fifth Extension Hydropower Project following a major construction incident.
The visit comes after a weak rock mass collapsed during excavation work on November 9. The collapse allowed water from the project’s intake pit to enter an under-construction tunnel and powerhouse area.
The incident forced authorities to suspend construction and evacuate workers from the affected areas.
Investigation Underway After Water Surge
According to WAPDA, the collapse occurred during excavation of the second Bench Connecting Tunnel. Water entered the tunnel and nearby powerhouse construction area, prompting an immediate emergency response.
All workers evacuated safely. Authorities reported no casualties or injuries.
WAPDA also confirmed that water from the intake pit had been completely drained. Dewatering work at the under-construction powerhouse has started.
The authority clarified that reports about the collapse of the main T5 tunnel were incorrect. It said the main tunnel, powerhouse, tailrace culvert and switchyard remained undamaged.
Senior WAPDA officials, the project engineer and the contractor are assessing the situation. An investigation will help determine the circumstances behind the incident and identify necessary corrective measures.
Major Hydropower Project Faces Another Setback
The Tarbela Fifth Extension project aims to add 1,530 megawatts of electricity to Pakistan’s national grid. It includes three generating units, each with a capacity of 510MW.
The World Bank and Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank are financing the project. They have committed $390 million and $300 million, respectively.
The project has already faced significant delays and rising costs following an earlier cofferdam collapse. A government inquiry previously identified design changes and shortcomings among key stakeholders.
Construction Remains Suspended
Authorities have yet to announce when construction will resume. Officials must assess the affected areas and determine whether repairs or additional safety measures are necessary.
The WAPDA chairman’s visit is expected to provide further insight into the investigation and the project’s next steps.
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