A five-member Asian Development Bank (ADB) delegation led by Country Director Yong Ye called on Chairman of WAPDA Lt Gen Sajjad Ghani (Retd) and discussed financing of various Water and Power Development Authority (WAPDA)’s projects. The WAPDA's plan to provide inexpensive, environmentally friendly hydel electricity to the national grid in order to stabilise the country's power rates was explained to the delegation. The delegation was informed that there is tremendous investment potential in WAPDA projects.

The group was also given information on the innovative financing plan for WAPDA projects now under-construction, particularly Diamer Basha Dam and Mohmand Dam Hydropower Project, as well as investment prospects therein for foreign financial institutions.The delegation was also given the portfolio of WAPDA's forthcoming projects, including the Patan and Thakot hydropower projects, for project readiness financing by the ADB.

The meeting also covered topics related to the project's finances for the Naulong Dam. Speaking at the event, the ADB country director said that WAPDA and the Bank have long collaborated on improving Pakistan's water and hydroelectric resources. The delegation expressed a strong interest in funding WAPDA projects during the meeting.

Credit : Independent News Pakistan-WealthPk