Mega dams' price tag soars to Rs3.5tr

The Economic Coordination Committee approved Rs275 billion for six water infrastructure projects, including the Diamer-Bhasha, Dasu and Mohmand dams, The Express Tribune reported on November 4. The three dams’ combined estimated cost has climbed to Rs3.5 trillion from Rs1.28 trillion, a rise of Rs2.3 trillion, or 176%.

The approved funding is below the nearly Rs450 billion sought for the projects this fiscal year, and its release depends on government revenue receipts. The report also says provincial contributions are tied to Federal Board of Revenue collections. Separately, the ECC allowed gas supply to FatimaFert and Agritech, plants based on Sui Northern Gas Pipelines Limited, to continue until December 31, 2026, subject to energy availability.