Islamabad: The Pakistan Water and Power Development Authority (WAPDA) is set to initiate the diversion of the Swat River at the Mohmand Dam Hydropower Project, a critical development in the construction of what will be Pakistan’s tallest concrete-face rock-fill dam.

According to Zameen.Com, WAPDA is finalizing preparations to commence the river diversion following the completion of the river-closure-dyke, anticipated to occur within the next few days. This step comes amidst the challenges of the high-flow season, marking a significant phase in the project’s progression. WAPDA Chairman Engr. Lt Gen Sajjad Ghani (Retd) recently oversaw the site’s operations to ensure readiness for this next phase.

During his site visit, Chairman Ghani inspected the project’s key components, such as the diversion tunnels, powerhouse, spillway, and power intake. He was informed that the concrete lining of diversion tunnel 3/1 is ready, and the inlet structure is set for the upcoming river diversion. Other construction activities, including excavation and rock support for the powerhouse and spillway concrete works, are advancing steadily.

The meeting that followed with the WAPDA team, consultants, and contractors focused on the river diversion strategy, quarries development, and the main dam’s construction timeline, emphasizing the need for maintaining high-quality standards throughout the project lifecycle.

The Mohmand Dam, located in the Mohmand District of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, is set to become the 5th highest concrete-face rock-fill dam in the world upon completion, expected between 2026 and 2027. This multipurpose facility aims to enhance water storage for agriculture, provide flood control, supply urban water to Peshawar, and generate 800 MW of sustainable hydropower. It will store up to 1.29 million acre-feet of water, irrigate over 18,237 acres of land, and deliver 300 million gallons of water daily to Peshawar. The projected annual benefits of the project are estimated at PKR 51.6 billion.