Massive Infrastructure Project: Mohmand Dam to Store 1.29 MAF of Water, Irrigate 18,237 Acres of New Land, and Provide 800 MW of Clean Electricity
ISLAMABAD: The construction of the Mohmand Dam, a significant hydropower project in Pakistan, is progressing steadily, bringing hope for numerous benefits to the region and its people.
Scheduled for completion in 2026, the Mohmand Dam project is set to be a multipurpose endeavor, aiming to address various challenges while providing significant opportunities for development. Located in the Mohmand district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, the dam will play a crucial role in water management, irrigation, flood control, and power generation.
One of the key highlights of the project is its capacity to store 1.29 million acre-feet (MAF) of water, which will be utilized for irrigation purposes. This water will irrigate around 18,237 acres of new land, providing vital support for agricultural activities in the region. Additionally, the dam will supplement irrigation supplies to another 160,000 acres of existing land, further enhancing agricultural productivity and livelihoods for local farmers.
Moreover, the hydropower potential of the Mohmand Dam is substantial, with an installed capacity of 800 megawatts (MW). Once operational, the dam will generate approximately 2.86 billion units of electricity annually, contributing significantly to the country’s energy needs. Importantly, this electricity will be green, clean, and economically affordable, aligning with Pakistan’s commitment to sustainable energy solutions and environmental conservation.
Another crucial aspect of the Mohmand Dam project is its role in providing water for urban consumption. The dam will supply 300 million gallons of water per day to Peshawar, addressing the city’s growing demand for drinking water and improving access to clean water for its residents.
Recent developments in the project include the imminent diversion of the Swat River, a crucial step in the construction process. The Water and Power Development Authority (WAPDA) is set to divert the river in April, marking a significant milestone in the project’s timeline. WAPDA Chairman Engr Lt-Gen (retd) Sajjad Ghani recently visited the construction site to inspect progress and ensure that construction activities are proceeding as planned.
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With work continuing on various fronts, including the spillway, diversion tunnels, and power house, the Mohmand Dam project is on track to deliver its promised benefits to the communities it serves. Emphasizing the importance of timely completion, WAPDA remains committed to deploying additional resources to expedite construction activities and ensure the successful realization of this vital infrastructure project.
Overall, the Mohmand Dam project represents a beacon of hope for the region, promising improved water management, enhanced agricultural productivity, sustainable energy generation, and better access to essential services for the people of Pakistan. As progress continues, the project is poised to make a transformative impact on the lives and livelihoods of communities across the Mohmand district and beyond.
