DIAMER: Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari has urged the federal government to accelerate work on the Diamer-Bhasha Dam, describing the project as vital for Pakistan’s water security, energy needs, and economic future.
According to Beyond Time News, Bilawal made the remarks while addressing an election rally in Diamer ahead of the Gilgit-Baltistan Assembly elections scheduled for June 7.
Bilawal Terms Dam a National Priority
Speaking to supporters, Bilawal said the Diamer-Bhasha Dam was not only the right of the people of Diamer but also a strategic necessity for the entire country.
He stressed that Pakistan must prioritize the project amid growing concerns over regional water resources and long-term energy demands.
Calling for swift action, Bilawal urged Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to apply his trademark “Shehbaz speed” to ensure the dam’s early completion.
Raises Concerns Over Water Disputes
The PPP chairman criticized India’s suspension of obligations under the Indus Waters Treaty and accused New Delhi of using water as a political tool.
Bilawal said Pakistan must strengthen its water infrastructure to safeguard national interests and reduce future vulnerabilities.
He argued that no development project currently holds greater strategic importance than the Diamer-Bhasha Dam.
Importance of Diamer-Bhasha Dam
The Diamer-Bhasha Dam is a major hydropower and water storage project with a planned generation capacity of 4,500 megawatts.
The project is expected to improve water availability for agriculture, support irrigation across millions of acres, and enhance Pakistan’s energy supply.
Experts also believe the dam will help extend the operational life of the Tarbela Dam by reducing sediment accumulation.
PPP Seeks Support in Gilgit-Baltistan Elections
Bilawal also appealed to voters in Gilgit-Baltistan to support PPP candidates in the upcoming elections.
He claimed the party received the highest number of votes in the previous election cycle and remained committed to serving the region.
The PPP chairman said a stronger and more empowered Gilgit-Baltistan would contribute significantly to Pakistan’s overall economic development.
Promise of Expanded Healthcare Services
Highlighting the PPP’s governance record in Sindh, Bilawal pointed to the expansion of public healthcare facilities in the province.
He said hospitals established under the party’s administration provide free medicines, surgeries, and transplant services.
Bilawal pledged to pursue similar healthcare initiatives in Gilgit-Baltistan if given the opportunity.
Read more:Bilawal Bhutto Calls for Greater Autonomy for Gilgit-Baltistan Ahead of Elections
Focus on Constitutional Rights and Development
The PPP leader reiterated his support for extending the benefits of the 18th Constitutional Amendment to Gilgit-Baltistan.
He argued that greater local empowerment and development would improve public services and create new economic opportunities in the region.
Bilawal said sustainable development, infrastructure investment, and social welfare programs remain central to the party’s vision for Gilgit-Baltistan.
Remarks on Foreign Military Bases
During his speech, Bilawal also referred to past foreign military facilities in Pakistan.
He said a PPP-led government had previously closed foreign military bases operating in the country and described the move as one of the party’s significant achievements.
In an apparent criticism of former Prime Minister Imran Khan, Bilawal disputed claims that Khan was the first leader to reject foreign military bases, arguing that previous governments had already taken such steps.
Conclusion
As election campaigning intensifies in Gilgit-Baltistan, infrastructure development, water security, healthcare, and constitutional rights have emerged as major themes. Bilawal’s call for the rapid completion of the Diamer-Bhasha Dam highlights the growing focus on strategic development projects that could shape Pakistan’s economic and energy future.
FAQs
What did Bilawal Bhutto Zardari say about the Diamer-Bhasha Dam?
He urged the federal government to complete the project as quickly as possible, calling it a national necessity.
Why is the Diamer-Bhasha Dam important?
The project will generate hydropower, improve water storage, support agriculture, and strengthen Pakistan’s water security.
What is the planned capacity of the dam?
The Diamer-Bhasha Dam is expected to generate approximately 4,500 megawatts of electricity.
What healthcare promise did Bilawal make?
He pledged to expand access to free healthcare services in Gilgit-Baltistan, similar to programs operating in Sindh.
When will the Gilgit-Baltistan elections take place?
The elections for the Gilgit-Baltistan Assembly are scheduled for June 7.
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