Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur has stressed that the construction of Kalabagh Dam is vital for the country, adding that any concerns surrounding the project should be addressed through dialogue.
Speaking to the media after a party meeting at Khyber Pakhtunkhwa House in Islamabad, the chief minister said that the absence of dams has worsened the impact of heavy rains and floods, leading to massive destruction.
“We are afraid to even mention the names of certain dams. Kalabagh Dam is essential for the state, and if there are any reservations, they should be resolved through discussion,” Gandapur remarked. He added that KP is ready to contribute its share for the project and urged other provinces to do the same so that construction can move forward.
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The chief minister said that delaying dam construction has caused significant losses, but his provincial government is now independently building dams. “No serious efforts have been made in Pakistan to tackle natural disasters or construct dams. Last year, we completed six dams, while Gomal Zam Dam has already reduced damages. We are currently working on several more dams across districts to minimize risks,” he said.
Highlighting ongoing initiatives, Gandapur said that the provincial government is building Jabba Dam to protect Peshawar, while a protective wall is being constructed at Budhni to safeguard the city from floods.
