Pakistan has achieved an important milestone in its energy sector as the Gomal Zam Hydropower Station has returned to its full electricity generation capacity. It has been operating electricity at half output for nearly eight years.
The Water and Power Development Authority (WAPDA) confirmed the reparation of station’s second generating unit. The authority confirmed that it is tested, and synchronized with the national grid. The hydropower station is once again producing its full installed capacity of 17.4 megawatts (MW).
The unit had been affected by a major technical fault in October 2016. As a result it’s both generating units went out of operation. One unit was repaired and restarted in June 2018. However, the second unit was damaged technically, it remained out of service. It had been producing electricity production to 8.7MW for several years.
With the investement of Rs359.5 million, the restoration project began in April 2026. Engineers completed the rehabilitation work within 80 days, and successfully recommissioned the repaired unit on June 25, 2026, following mandatory operational, technical, and safety tests.
This hydropower station is expected to increase the supply of affordable and environment friendly electricity to Pakistan’s national grid. Officials said the project will particularly improve power system stability in South Waziristan, Tank, Dera Ismail Khan, and other nearby districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
The Gomal Zam Hydropower Station is connected to the national grid through the 132-kilovolt South Waziristan Lower–Tank transmission line. At full capacity, it can generate approximately 90.9 million units of clean electricity anually, helping reduce dependence on imported fuels while increasing the country’s share of renewable energy.
The Gomal Zam Dam is also one of Pakistan’s major multi-purpose water resource projects. Construction started in 2002 and was completed in 2013 after facing delays caused by security concerns, financial limitations, and administrative challenges.
The dam has a gross water storage capacity of around 1.14 million acre-feet and provides irrigation water to nearly 191,000 acres of farmland. It also plays a vital role in flood control, water conservation, and also supports agricultural development across the region.
Located in the Kar Kanra area of Wana Tehsil in Lower South Waziristan, the project has become an important source of economic development and infrastructure for surrounding communities.
Energy experts have welcomed the restoration, comenting that it is a positive step for Pakistan’s clean energy ambitions. They believe that this step will strengthen the national electricity network, improve energy security, and provide long-term economic and environmental benefits.
Umar Daraz is the Founder and Editor of TodayEast, an independent digital news platform covering global affairs, business, technology, sports, and world rankings. He specializes in data-driven journalism, international news analysis, economic trends, and emerging technologies. Through TodayEast, he aims to provide accurate, accessible, and insightful reporting on the stories shaping the world.
