CHILLAS – Renowned economists and energy experts have said that construction of Diamer Basha Dam would help generate job opportunities and boost economic activities across the country.
Speaking with News and Current Affairs Channel of Radio Pakistan today, they appreciated the policies and measures taken by the present government to strengthen national economy and overcome energy shortage in the country.
In his comments, Energy Expert Dr. Sarfraz Ahmed Khan said Pakistan has been facing the challenge of power shortage for last many years. He said construction of small and medium dams are mandatory to address energy shortage issue in the country. He further said the construction of dams will help generate cheap electricity and fulfill Pakistan’s agriculture requirements. He further said that projects under CPEC will accelerate the economic activities in the country.
Taking part in the discussion, renowned economist Dr. Aaliya Hashmi said inauguration of Diamer Bhasha Dam project is highly significant in post Covid-19 scenario. She further that there is a global slowdown due to Covid-19 pandemic and all countries are working hard to uplift the economy. She added that construction of dams and huge infrastructure is the best way to generate employment opportunities in the country.
Speaking on the occasion, economist Dr. Mirza Ikhtiyar Baig said that is highly appreciable that the incumbent government has taken the great initiative of constructing Diamer Bhasha Dam .The project would create job opportunities and boost economic activities in the country. He said the project would help reserve water and produce clean and cheap electricity without affecting the environment.
Former MD PEPCO Tahir Basharat Cheema said Pakistan is facing shortage of water due to absence of water dams. He said Diamer Bhasha and Mohmund dams would provide a range of economic, environmental, and social benefits, including flood control, water supply, hydroelectric power and waste management. He further said that it is highly appreciable that the incumbent government has taken a great initiative to address the issue of energy shortage in Pakistan.
Former Secretary, Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas Dr. Gulfraz Ahmed said Diamer Bhasha and Mohmand Dams would play crucial role in improving the economy and generate clean and cheap electricity. He said Diamer Basha Dam would change the fortune of people and uplift economic activities in the country. .
Concluding the debate, renowned economist Dr. Shahid Hassan Siddique said Diamer Bhasha dam would help generate jobs, produce clean energy, store water and prevent floods in the country. He said the lower cost of electricity would directly benefit the general public in coming years. He also underlined the need to restrain from wasting water, urging the media and religious scholars to educate masses regarding wise use of water.
