Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur has publicly expressed his support for the controversial Kalabagh Dam project. He urged national dialogue and consensus before construction, emphasizing that smaller dams cannot replace the Kalabagh Dam.
Speaking to the media, Gandapur said, “Pakistan needs the Kalabagh Dam. Build consensus, address provincial concerns, and construct it.” He also called on the media to help initiate discussions on the project, focusing on national interest rather than politics.
The KP CM acknowledged opposition from certain quarters, noting that the issue is particularly sensitive in one district. “Aimal Wali said our generations will not allow the dam, but this is Pakistan’s issue,” Gandapur stated. He also voiced support for creating new provinces, suggesting that smaller administrative units could improve governance.
However, PTI central leader and former National Assembly speaker Asad Qaiser clarified that Gandapur’s stance does not represent the party’s official position. Qaiser described the KP CM’s remarks as his personal opinion and reaffirmed PTI’s preference for constructing smaller dams. He emphasized that Dera Ismail Khan, Gandapur’s hometown, could benefit from local projects like the Chashma Right Bank Canal.
PTI Secretary General Salman Akram Raja also noted that concerns remain in both Sindh and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. He stressed the need for political harmony and provincial consensus before proceeding with any major water projects.
Major political parties, including PPP, ANP, and JUIF, rejected Gandapur’s support for the Kalabagh Dam. PPP Sindh president Nisar Khuhro accused the KP CM of disregarding the provincial assembly’s unanimous opposition and warned that Sindh would never accept the project. ANP and JUIF leaders called the project a “dead horse,” highlighting ongoing work on the Diamer-Bhasha and Mohmand dams as viable alternatives.
Meanwhile, PML-N senior leader and Defence Minister Khawaja Asif described Gandapur’s statement as “welcome,” citing Pakistan’s urgent need to store water and reduce wastage.
The debate over the Kalabagh Dam reflects deep political divisions in Pakistan. While some leaders call it essential for water storage and flood control, others insist on consensus and local alternatives before any construction begins.
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