A Senate sub-committee has sharply criticized Wapda for prolonged delays in hydropower projects, demanding accountability for cost overruns that have strained national finances. The panel, chaired by Senator Syed Waqar Mehdi, reviewed projects in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Sindh during a recent meeting in Islamabad. Main Developments Senator Mehdi expressed grave concern that projects launched 12 years ago still lack clear completion dates. He directed Wapda to fix responsibility for delays and submit detailed financial impact assessments. Officials attributed setbacks to land acquisition issues from 2015 to 2019, the Covid-19 pandemic, security incidents from 2022 to 2024, and multiple design changes. About 54% of work on the Mohmand Dam has been completed, with a revised target of June 2028. Read also: Cousin and Sister-in-Law Remanded in Karachi Toddler's Rape-Murder Background The sub-committee, part of the Senate Standing Committee on Economic Affairs, previously reviewed projects in Punjab and Balochistan. Funding for these ventures comes from the World Bank, foreign and local commercial loans, and Wapda's equity. Senator Mehdi questioned why design changes occurred repeatedly despite hiring consultants, noting such revisions inflate costs and burden the exchequer. Land acquisition stalled for five years despite repeated letters to the provincial government. Why It Matters Delays in hydropower projects increase electricity generation costs and prolong Pakistan's reliance on expensive imported fuel. Cost overruns ultimately fall on taxpayers and consumers through higher tariffs or fiscal deficits. The Mohmand Dam alone, a key water and power project, remains years behind schedule, threatening energy security and irrigation targets in an already water-stressed region. What's Next Wapda must submit a detailed report on cost escalations and responsible parties to the Senate panel. The sub-committee will continue monitoring progress, with the Mohmand Dam's revised 2028 deadline under scrutiny. Questions remain over whether further delays will trigger additional financial penalties or restructuring of loan agreements with international lenders.