Daducha Dam project widened to include power, pipelines and recreation plans

RAWALPINDI: The Daducha Dam project in Rawalpindi district is being expanded beyond water storage, with authorities initiating work on possible electricity generation, a new water supply pipeline to the city, and recreational facilities at the site.

According to details shared during an official visit to the project site, a feasibility study is being launched to examine the proposed generation of electricity from the dam, which is under construction at the junction of Kallar Syedan and Kahuta tehsils in Rawalpindi district.

Commissioner Rawalpindi Division Aamir Rafiq, during the visit, said there was also potential for electricity generation from the project and directed that an immediate study be carried out and a report submitted. Rs20 million is expected to be released soon for this purpose.

The commissioner also instructed the managing director of the Water and Sanitation Agency to prepare, within the current financial year, a study and PC-I for laying a 25-kilometre water supply pipeline from the dam to Rawalpindi city. After completion of the study, Section 4 would be imposed and land for the route would be acquired, while experts would determine the alignment of the pipeline.

The project also includes plans for overhead water tanks and a large filtration plant, for which more land will be acquired. Once completed, the dam is expected to provide 35 million gallons of water per day to Rawalpindi.

Land acquisition and construction progress

The dam is located around 25 kilometres from Rawalpindi in Tehsil Kallar Syedan. The project involves the acquisition of 16,194 kanals and 14 marlas of private land, in addition to large stretches of government forest and hilly terrain.

All land required for the project has now been formally acquired and residents affected by the scheme have vacated the area. Construction work is continuing at pace under the Frontier Works Organisation.

The project was first proposed in 2001, when its estimated cost stood at Rs7 billion. After a delay of 25 years, the revised cost has risen to Rs52,730 million.

Water supply for nearby settlements

Aamir Rafiq also announced that settlements around the dam would be connected to a water supply system after the project is completed. He said directions had been issued for preparation of a comprehensive scheme for that purpose.

In addition to its water supply role, the authorities have decided to develop the site as a major recreational and picnic destination for the district. The plan, is aimed at easing pressure on urban parks and drawing visitors from nearby areas.

Recreation and tourism features

The project is to include a European-style recreational park, while boating and scooting activities are planned in the reservoir. The site is also intended to serve as a habitat for migratory birds arriving from Siberia during the winter season.

Officials said the expanded concept reflects an effort to turn Daducha Dam into a multi-purpose project combining water supply, possible power generation, and public recreation.