The Water and Power Development Authority has clearly stated that the recent tunnel accident at the Tarbela Dam fifth extension project poses no danger to the main dam or any of its core structures. Wapda Chairman Lieutenant General (retd) Muhammad Saeed personally visited the site on November 10 to assess the situation and review safety measures after water entered a construction tunnel.
During his visit, the chairman inspected the intake structure, tunnel, powerhouse and other key areas of the fifth extension hydropower project. He also chaired a detailed meeting at the project office where consultants, the contractor and Wapda teams gave a full briefing. Officials confirmed that the main Tarbela Dam remains fully secure and that its overall integrity is not affected in any way.
The incident occurred a day earlier when a weak section of rock collapsed during excavation of the second bench of a connecting tunnel. Water from the intake pit then flowed into the tunnel and the under-construction powerhouse. All workers were safely evacuated at once. Wapda teams later drained the intake pit completely and began dewatering the powerhouse. No further water was entering the downstream work areas after the initial inflow.
At the meeting, possible causes of the rock fall were discussed in detail. Immediate precautionary steps and a clear response strategy were also finalized. The chairman directed project teams to cover every aspect of the incident and submit a complete report as soon as possible. He stressed the need for thorough investigation and strict safety protocols going forward.
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Water Resources has asked Wapda for a comprehensive report on the matter. Sources said the departmental inquiry ordered by the chairman will be completed within a week. Experts from outside Wapda will also join the inquiry team so that responsibility can be fixed properly. The final report will be submitted to the Prime Minister’s Office.
Officials remain focused on restoring normal work at the site while ensuring that safety remains the top priority. The Tarbela Dam continues to operate without any structural concern, and authorities have assured the public that all necessary steps are being taken to prevent similar issues in future construction phases.
