Chairman WAPDA Naveed Asghar Chaudhry reviewing construction activities at Mohmand Dam Hydropower Project site

The Water and Power Development Authority (WAPDA) in Pakistan has reported steady progress on the Mohmand Dam Hydropower Project, with construction advancing concurrently at 14 key sites in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Mohmand district. The project, located on the Swat River, is set to enhance the region’s energy and water infrastructure.

Construction of the main dam structure began in May 2025, following the completion of essential preparatory work, including diversion tunnels, coffer dams, and foundation excavation. Significant advancements have been made on the spillway, powerhouse, and power intake, with the spillway progressing ahead of schedule. The powerhouse building is under construction, and electro-mechanical equipment manufacturing is in advanced stages.

The Mohmand Dam, scheduled to start generating electricity in 2027, will have an installed capacity of 800 MW, contributing approximately 2.86 billion units of cost-effective hydropower to Pakistan’s national grid each year. Upon completion, the 213-meter-high concrete-faced rockfill dam will rank as the world’s fifth tallest of its kind.

Beyond energy production, the dam will store 1.29 million acre-feet of water, enabling irrigation for over 18,000 acres of new farmland and supplementing irrigation for an additional 160,000 acres. It will also provide 300 million gallons of drinking water daily to Peshawar, while reducing flood risks for Peshawar, Charsadda, and Nowshera, supporting local communities and agriculture.

WAPDA Chairman Naveed Asghar Chaudhry visited the site in July 2025 to assess progress. He directed project teams to sustain the current pace to ensure the project meets its timeline, stating: “Maintaining the current pace is critical to ensure timely completion.” His oversight underscores WAPDA’s commitment to delivering the project efficiently.

The Mohmand Dam Hydropower Project is a vital initiative for Pakistan, enhancing energy security and water management for domestic consumption. By generating renewable energy and improving irrigation and water supply, the project supports sustainable development and economic growth in the region.

by water power