Pakistan has taken a big step forward in its energy sector. The Dasu Hydropower Project, the country’s largest hydropower initiative, has achieved an important construction milestone. Officials have started the full-scale Roller Compacted Concrete (RCC) trial near the main dam site.
This trial will last for four months. Engineers will test concrete placement, quality, and techniques needed for the huge dam. If successful, regular RCC work on the main dam will begin later this year. Construction is moving fast on 23 different work fronts at the same time.
The Dasu project is located on the Indus River in Upper Kohistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. It will have a total capacity of 4,320 megawatts (MW) in two phases. The first phase alone will produce 2,160 MW and generate around 12 billion units of clean electricity every year. This will help reduce Pakistan’s dependence on expensive imported fuels and support cheaper power for homes and industries.
However, there is one challenge. The project needs pozzolan, a special material from the Gini area. WAPDA is still trying to get full possession of the land after more than ten years of efforts.
Once complete, Dasu will play a key role in Pakistan’s energy security and green energy goals.