Monthly Report: Completion of Gomal Zam Dam, Hydro Power and Transmission Line Project

The project, funded by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) through the WAPDA Project Implementation Agreement No. 391-PEPA-ENR-GOMAL-PIL-001, aims to provide hydroelectric power and improve irrigation facilities in the region. The project's main dam and spillway concrete and related works are 100% complete, with mechanical testing of dam fixtures also completed. The hydropower and switchgear component is 98% complete, with the remaining 2% expected to be completed by June 2012. The installation of transmission line towers is in progress, with 95% completion achieved over a distance of 54 km. The reservoir filling started with the closure of the diversion tunnel, and the water level has reached 715 meters. The final testing and commissioning of the project are dependent on the reservoir filling up to the normal operating level of 743 meters, which is expected in August-September 2012. An inspection visit to the project site was conducted from May 28 to May 31, 2012, during which meetings were held with key WAPDA officers, management consultants, and contractors. The project's schedule of status indicates that the main dam, spillways concrete and related works are 88% complete, with a claim of $19.171 million reimbursed. The hydropower and switchgear component is 90% complete, with a claim of $0.757 million reimbursed. The 132kV transmission line and related works are 50% complete, with a claim of $1.0 million reimbursed. The completion of mechanical testing of dam fixtures is 100% complete, with a claim of $2.0 million reimbursed. As of May 2012, the total disbursement for the project is $36,589,000, out of the committed $40 million assistance amount. Amendment No. 1 to the Activity Agreement revised the completion date of the energy portion to September 30, 2012. The project is expected to be completed on schedule, with final testing dependent on water availability.