'Biggest dam' in history of Pakistan being constructed: PM

CHILLAS (92 News) – Prime Minister (PM) Imran Khan has said that the government is going to construct the biggest dam in history of Pakistan. Addressing a gathering in Chillas during the visit of Diamer-Bhasha dam site, the prime minister reiterated that they will go forward towards next dam after every pause. “Unfortunately, the wrong decisions taken by the past governments led to environmental deterioration and decline in industrial progress.” he added. The premier said Diamer Bhasha Dam will be the third largest dam of the country. He said it was envisaged 40 years ago, but work on the project is being started today. “We will neither have to import fuel for this project nor will it affect our climate,” he added. PM Khan said it will not add to the global warming problems of the country. He also said in 1990s, decision was made to generate electricity through imported fuel, which caused current account deficit. He said Pakistan has huge potential for hydel power, which needs to be tapped. He said the government will also launch other hydel power projects. The premier said Diamer-Bhasha Dam will change the fate of the people of Gilgit-Baltistan by creating employment opportunities for them. He said the tourism sector in the region will also get promoted with the implementation of the mega project. Imran Khan said the PTI government is focused to uplift the living standard of the downtrodden. He said the government has enhanced budget of Gilgit-Baltistan with an aim to provide maximum facilities to the people of the region. Earlier today, PM Imran Khan has reviewed the progress on construction of the Diamer-Bhasha dam in Gilgit-Baltistan during his visit to the site. Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Qamar Javed Bajwa, Federal Minister for Water Faisal Vawda, DG ISI, Minister for Kashmir Affairs Ali Amin Gandapur and Special Assistant on Information and CPEC Authority chairman Lt Gen (rtd) Asim Saleem Bajwa were accompanying the premier on the visit.  The prime minister visited the construction site of the world’s biggest RCC dam, to be built on the River Indus, and reviewed the pace and quality of the construction works. The premier has been given a briefing on Diamer- Bhasha Dam. He was shown a special documentary on the Bhasha Dam project and water efficiency.