The Water and Power Development Authority (WAPDA) has allocated over Rs94.2 million for 75 girls’ schools in Diamer. This step aims to improve access to education, especially for young girls in remote areas.
The funding comes under the Community-Based Accelerated Learning Schools (CBALS) programme. It will support school operations for the next three years. The programme is a joint effort between WAPDA, the Gilgit-Baltistan Education Department, and the READ Foundation.
This initiative is expected to benefit around 2,250 out-of-school girls. These students belong to Chilas, Tangir, and Darel. The goal is to provide them with basic primary education in a structured environment.
In addition, WAPDA has set aside Rs29.5 million for school rehabilitation. Five government schools in Tangir and Darel will be upgraded. The plan includes better facilities, new furniture, and learning materials. Two coaster buses will also be provided for student transport.
The rehabilitation work was proposed by the Gilgit-Baltistan Scouts. It will be carried out under joint supervision. WAPDA and local education authorities will ensure proper implementation.
WAPDA has already completed several education projects in the region. One major project is Cadet College Chilas, built at a cost of Rs2.1 billion. Another project is Thore Army Public School, which cost Rs22.6 million. Several schools in Tangir and Darel have also been improved.
More education projects are under approval and development. Overall, WAPDA is investing Rs78.5 billion in social and infrastructure development in the Diamer-Bhasha Dam area.
Apart from education, WAPDA is also working on energy projects. It recently started upgrading the Mangla Hydel Power Station. This project aims to increase power capacity from 1,000MW to 1,310MW.
The upgrade will boost clean energy production. It will also reduce reliance on expensive thermal power. WAPDA plans to strengthen Pakistan’s long-term energy security through such initiatives.
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These combined efforts show WAPDA’s focus on both education and sustainable development in the country.
