To meet energy needs of Diamer-Bhasha Dam Project (DBDP) during its construction process, 15MW Tangir Hydropower project will be made part of it. The decision in this connection was made at a meeting of a committee, constituted under the directives of Prime Minister under the chairmanship of Secretary, Ministry of PD&R on 12th July, 2018. Gilgit Baltistan Chief Secretary, Joint Secretary Ministry of Water Resources Member Energy, Planning Commission, Sr. Chief (Tech) and Chief (Power) Ministry of PD&R attended the meeting. The position paper of Planning Commission of Pakistan about additional component is available with Business Recorder.
Adviser (Projects) WAPDA briefed about the importance of 15 MW Tangir Hydropower Project, which would increase the cost of Bhasha Dam project from Rs 474 billion to Rs 480 billion. But, it would be a cheap renewable energy source to be used during construction of Diamer-Bhasha Dam Project.
Joint Secretary Ministry of Water Resources, Member Energy and Chief Energy, Ministry of PD&R confirmed that Tangir Hydropower Project would be more cost effective than all other provisions. They have also checked the efficacy of design and site conditions of the project. After completion of Diamer-Bhasha Dam Project, it will be handed over to GB Administration to meet the energy demand of locals. This will also serve as confidence building measure.
Gilgit Baltistan Chief Secretary was of the view that implementation of Tangir Hydropower Project would boost the trust of locals on the dam and after its construction, Tangir Hydropower Project would be utilized for local area consumption. He also strongly supported implementation of Tangir Hydropower Project. The position paper of the project will be placed before the Central Development Working Party (CDWP) in its next meeting for approval.