ISLAMABAD: The incoming chairman of the Water and Power Development Authority (WAPDA) is expected to face a challenging start amid internal unrest sparked by controversial structural changes made by the acting management in recent weeks.
Sources reveal that the acting chairman implemented several senior-level reorganisations—adding and removing key posts and advisers—just before the appointment of the new chairman. These decisions, allegedly taken without a proper quorum, were rushed through a hastily convened meeting and formalised the same day the Ministry of Water Resources held interviews for the new leadership.
The restructuring involved merging the posts of General Manager (Land Acquisition & Rehabilitation)—a PC-1 approved role—and General Manager (Human Resources Development)—a regular cadre position—raising concerns about its impact on critical project delivery.
One of the most contentious decisions was the abolition of the GM (Security) post. Brigadier (Retd) Muhammad Kashif Butt, who was serving in that role and was also a member of the foundational review committee, has publicly disowned the committee’s recommendations. In a letter to the acting chairman, he claimed he was neither informed that his position was under review nor had he signed off on the changes. Calling the move professionally damaging, he requested the reversal of the decision and hinted at possible legal action.
WAPDA, which is managing multi-billion-dollar hydropower projects vital to Pakistan’s energy future, is currently being run by acting members. The perceived attempt to position loyalists before the new chairman assumes charge has led to growing concern about transparency and governance.
Despite repeated requests, WAPDA has yet to issue an official response to the allegations.
Story by Zafar Bhutta
