LAHORE: Gilgit-Baltistan Chief Minister Muhammad Khalid Khursheed says that projects including Diamer Basha Dam would go a long way in transforming the socio-economic landscape of the country in general and Gilgit-Baltistan in particular.

He said this here on Monday while holding a meeting with Wapda Chairman retired Lt Gen Muzammil Hussain and other officials.

The authorities briefed him about water and hydropower projects being implemented by Wapda in GB during the meeting. These projects include Diamer Basha Dam, Harpo, Tangir, Thak, Shayok Dam, Basho, Attabad Lake, Skardu Dam, Tungus and Yulbo hydropower schemes.

The matters relating to the resettlement action plan, land acquisition and schemes under Confidence Building Measures (CBMs) for Diamer Basha project were also discussed during the meeting. The progress on other projects also came under discussion.

Expressing gratitude for arranging a briefing on projects in GB, Mr Khursheed said the region possessed enormous water and hydropower potential. He appreciated Wapda for implementing resettlement and social action plans for Basha Dam in accordance with the international safeguards.

Speaking on the occasion, the Wapda chairman appreciated the support provided by the GB government in implementation of various projects, especially Basha Dam. The chairman briefed that construction work on Diamer Basha Dam is continuing satisfactorily despite the difficulties owing to Covid-19.

Highlighting significance of Basha Dam in national development particularly that of GB, he apprised the CM that a hefty amount of Rs78.5 billion was being spent on schemes for uplift of the project area on CBMs.

Dilating upon the employment opportunities for locals, he reiterated that the posts from BPS-1 to 16, as advertised in the press on Sept 20 this year, would be filled from amongst the locals of Diamer district.

Published in Dawn, December 29th, 2020