ISLAMABAD: The Economic Affairs Division (EAD) has sought comprehensive updates on eight pipeline development projects to evaluate their readiness for potential financing by the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB). The details will be shared with the IsDB Programming Implementation and Supervision Mission (PIASR), scheduled to visit Pakistan from December 8-14, 2024.
The projects under negotiation include:
Diamer Bhasha Dam Hydropower Project
500 kV Double Circuit Transmission Line: Matiari–Moro–Rahim Yar Khan
500 kV Double Circuit Transmission Line: Ghazi Barotha–Faisalabad West
Sukkur–Hyderabad Motorway (M-6)
Chashma Right Bank Canal (CRBC)
Karachi–Torkham Highway Project (Phase II)
Reactive Compensation Power Devices for NTDC
Lahore–Sahiwal–Bahawalpur Motorway
Diamer Bhasha Dam: Key Details Requested
EAD has requested updates on equity financing interest ($1.2 billion), debt financing ($2.3 billion), and project milestones, including progress on Contract MW1 and procurement for MW2 and HM2. Clarifications were sought on the status of land acquisition, environmental and social management plans, and confidence-building measures.
Transmission Line Projects: Updates Required
For the Matiari–Moro–Rahim Yar Khan line, EAD seeks details on land acquisition, environmental studies, cost estimates, and engineering design status. Questions include the approval status of PC-1 by the Executive Committee of the National Economic Council (ECNEC) and confirmation of the EPC contract.
Similarly, for the Ghazi Barotha–Faisalabad West line, EAD has requested updates on procurement progress, feasibility studies, design reviews, and the timeline for key milestones.
Broader Objectives
EAD aims to provide the IsDB with robust data to evaluate the feasibility and financing requirements for these projects. The focus remains on advancing critical infrastructure, ensuring compliance with environmental and social standards, and expediting implementation through efficient procurement strategies.
The mission’s visit is expected to determine the scope of IsDB’s financial involvement in these strategic development initiatives.
Story by Mushtaq Ghumman
