USAID Energy Policy Program Monthly Report November 2012 Completion of Gomal Zam Dam, Hydropower and Transmission Line Project

The project is a collaborative effort between the Water and Power Development Authority (WAPDA) and the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) under the USAID Energy Policy Program. The project implementation agreement, USAID: WAPDA Project Implementation Agreement No. 391-PEPA-ENR-GOMAL-PIL-001, was signed to facilitate the completion of the project. The project's main objective is to generate hydroelectric power and provide irrigation facilities to the surrounding areas. The dam's construction began in 2003, and the project was initially expected to be completed by September 2009. However, due to various delays and security issues, the completion date was revised to September 30, 2013, under Amendment No. 1 to the Activity Agreement. As of November 2012, the project's status is as follows: the main dam and spillways concrete and related works are 88% complete, with a total claim of $19.171 million reimbursed. The hydropower and switchgear component is 90% complete, with a total claim of $0.757 million reimbursed. The 132kV transmission line and related works are 50% complete, with a total claim of $1.0 million reimbursed. Environmental compliance and implementation of the Environmental Monitoring and Mitigation Plan (EMMP) are also being monitored closely. An engineering firm contracted by the USAID Energy Policy Program conducted a site visit in November 2012 to ensure environmental compliance and implementation of the EMMP. The audit report has been submitted to USAID for review. The project's financial status is also being closely monitored. As of November 2012, the total disbursement of the $40 million USG funding committed for the Gomal Zam (energy component) is $36,589,000. The project's completion depends on the completion of the transmission line, switchyard, and availability of water for final testing. The project's overall status is that significant progress has been made, with several components completed or nearing completion. However, additional funding will be required by WAPDA to complete the project, and the project's completion date has been revised to September 30, 2013.