Pakistan’s KP CM calls for action on long-stalled mega dam critical for Pakistan’s energy

Chief Minister of Pakistan’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, Ali Amin Gandapur, has urged renewed action on the Kalabagh Dam, a long-stalled mega-dam project on the Indus River in Punjab province.

The dam, designed to generate hydroelectric power, store water for irrigation, and control floods, has remained politically contentious for decades.

Speaking to reporters, Gandapur called it a “national asset” and said technical and land-related concerns have largely been addressed, leaving political opposition as the primary obstacle.

Sindh and KP have argued that the dam could reduce their water share, worsen sea intrusion in Sindh, and displace communities in KP’s Nowshera valley. Punjab, in contrast, views it as vital for energy security and agricultural development. This inter-provincial mistrust has made Kalabagh one of Pakistan’s most divisive infrastructure projects.

Gandapur stressed that Pakistan, historically an agricultural country, requires more dams to harness its potential. “Reservations regarding Kalabagh Dam exist, but water rights are clearly defined under the Indus Waters Treaty. No province can be deprived of its rights,” he said.

Citing historical precedents, Gandapur noted that Mangla and Tarbela dams were built despite public concerns. “Even when the Munda location was selected 25 years ago, no population was affected, yet narratives about displacement persisted. Those issues have been resolved; today, only politics remains,” he added.

Gandapur emphasized that Kalabagh Dam would benefit KP, Punjab, and Sindh, urging Sindh to review the documentation and work toward a solution rather than obstruct the project. He also challenged the Awami National Party (ANP) to clarify any legitimate concerns or otherwise support the national interest, calling the dam “necessary for the country.”

Hydropower vs coal and national priorities

Gandapur criticized coal-based electricity projects, arguing that Pakistan has significant hydroelectric potential. “Coal power projects were unnecessary and often motivated by commissions,” he said.

He highlighted ongoing projects, including Diamer Bhasha Dam initiated under former Prime Minister Imran Khan, and the Gomal Dam, noting that flood relief spending could instead fund dam construction, reducing long-term disaster costs. He also framed the projects in terms of national security, claiming India seeks to manipulate Pakistan’s water resources through floods or droughts.

Political context

Regarding incarcerated PTI founder Imran Khan, Gandapur said his last meeting with Khan was on April 2. He indicated that restrictions on their meetings are politically motivated but expected to resolve soon amid broader national and regional developments, including the situation in Afghanistan.

Gandapur also touched on Imran Khan’s upcoming rally in Peshawar and emphasized that Khan’s release would occur through legal channels, while noting obstacles related to the establishment must be addressed by Khan himself.

Criticism of political rivals

Gandapur criticized Maulana Fazlur Rehman, alleging misuse of government funds during the 26th Constitutional Amendment process. “Maulana Fazlur Rehman has always prioritized his own interests, using our party to secure funds and votes,” he said.

With technical concerns addressed and inter-provincial negotiations possible, Gandapur emphasized that Kalabagh Dam remains a crucial national project. The chief minister called for political consensus and action to ensure Pakistan builds the infrastructure needed for energy security, flood management, and agricultural development.