New dams to double water storage capacity, address issue of climate change: PM

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ISLAMABAD, Feb 14 (APP): Prime Minister Imran Khan Monday said the new under-construction mega dams would double the water storage capacity of Pakistan and would help address the issues related to climate change.

Speaking at a seminar here on hydropower development, he said China had constructed 5000 dams but Pakistan had only two dams built in the 1960s.

"Due to this negligence, Pakistan suffered losses. As Pakistan is using imported fuel for electricity generation, whenever petrol prices go up in the international market, electricity prices also rise in Pakistan and the burden increases on the public," he said.

"If we had generated hydroelectricity, we would not have faced the present price hikes triggered by an increase in fuel prices," he added.

Pakistan had great potential for hydro electricity but it was producing half of its electricity from oil, he said, adding unfortunately due to lack of long term planning Pakistan was facing the present problems.

"Today we are celebrating the decade of dams. We need water storage," he said while observing that there were problems between provinces because of water issues.

The use of tunnel technology for dams was necessary in Pakistan, he said adding mountains of Pakistan were incomparable in the world and could help generate huge revenue from tourism.

The Prime Minister said proposed Kalabagh dam was at a good site but people of Sindh would have to be convinced about the project otherwise anti-Pakistan forces would instigate them on the water issue.

"We have to scientifically explain to the people of Sindh that Kalabagh dam will be beneficial for them. We are a federation and we should try to take provinces with us."

He appreciated Chairman Wapda Lt General (R) Muzammil Hussain for his dedication for the construction of water reservoirs.

New dams to double water storage capacity, address issue of climate change: PM

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