GILGIT: The Water and Power Development Authority (WAPDA) has confirmed that roller-compacted concrete (RCC) work will start this year on the major Diamer-Basha Dam and Dassu Hydropower projects. Retired Lt Gen Muhammad Saeed, WAPDA Chairman, was updated during his visit to the construction sites. He said all construction teams must stick strictly to timelines. At Diamer-Basha Dam on the Indus River, 40 km from Chilas town, work is ongoing at 20 key locations. Excavation of the left abutment and dam foundation is nearly done. RCC trials have been successfully completed. After finishing excavation of the right abutment, RCC placement for the main dam will start this year. The dam is expected to be completed by 2030. Saeed also met local ulema to discuss projects improving local communities. The new cadet college in Chilas is finished, Harpan Das model village is 61% complete with roads and utilities underway, and a water supply system contract for Chilas town has been awarded. Bidding is ongoing for a rural health center in Shatial, Upper Kohistan. Regarding Dassu Hydropower project in Upper Kohistan, work continues at 23 locations including the dam pit and underground power station. Crushing and concrete batching plants are finished and operational. RCC pouring for the main dam will begin this year. A 132 KV transmission line to supply power during construction is in the final testing phase and will be energized soon. Electricity production from the project is scheduled for 2028. Both projects mark Pakistan’s determined push towards boosting hydroelectric power and infrastructure.