Delay in Dasu Hydropower Project ‘Unacceptable’: Commissioner Fayyaz Ali Shah

ABBOTTABAD, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 13th Apr, 2026) Commissioner Hazara Division Fayyaz Ali Shah on Monday termed delays in the Dasu Hydropower Project unacceptable, directing authorities to accelerate work and resolve pending issues on a priority basis.

He expressed these views while chairing a high-level meeting in Abbottabad to review progress on relocated school sites and resettlement villages under the project.

The meeting was attended by the General Manager Dasu Dam, while Deputy Commissioners of Upper and Lower Kohistan and the Director General (Social Safeguards), along with their teams, joined via video link.

During the briefing, the General Manager appreciated the efforts of the divisional and district administrations, noting significant progress in addressing long-standing issues. However, officials stressed the need to further expedite the demolition of structures to maintain the project’s pace.

The commissioner directed that properties of individuals who have already received compensation and have no outstanding objections be vacated and demolished immediately. He also ordered issuance of formal notices to rejected households, followed by demolition actions. Additionally, authorities were instructed to recover rent from those continuing to occupy properties despite receiving compensation.

Taking a firm stance, Fayyaz Ali Shah ordered the identification and profiling of elements creating hurdles in the project, warning that strict disciplinary action would be taken if any government employees were found involved.

To address key concerns, he directed the formation of a joint committee comprising representatives of affected communities and district administration to resolve issues related to Basic Health Units (BHUs) and compensation for school lands.

On settlement matters, the Deputy Commissioner Lower Kohistan was instructed to complete all required documentation, provide staffing details, and expedite approvals from the board of Revenue to ensure early land transfer to the Dasu Dam through mutation.

The commissioner further directed all relevant departments to strengthen coordination, ensure timely resolution of issues on-site, and keep authorities updated on progress.

Concluding the meeting, he emphasized that the Dasu Hydropower Project is a vital initiative for national stability, energy self-sufficiency, and economic growth, warning that any delay could result in a waste of national resources. He urged all stakeholders to work with full coordination and commitment to ensure timely completion of the project.