ISLAMABAD: The government has decided to establish a dedicated “Wapda Security Force” to safeguard major water infrastructure projects and personnel working on them, particularly Chinese engineers and workers engaged in strategic hydropower developments across Pakistan.
The proposed force will be created under the Wapda Security Force Act, 2026, which has already been forwarded to parliament for approval.
According to the statement of objects and reasons, the force is being constituted to ensure the protection and security of critical infrastructure managed by the Water and Power Development Authority.
The move comes in the wake of two deadly terrorist attacks on the multi-billion-dollar Dasu Hydropower Project in November 2021 and March 2024, where several Chinese and Pakistani engineers and workers lost their lives.
Officials said that although special security divisions of the Pakistan Army were deployed for China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) projects, Wapda projects were initially outside the formal CPEC security framework. Following repeated attacks and consultations with the Chinese government, the prime minister directed that CPEC-level security arrangements be extended to all major water-sector projects, especially those involving Chinese nationals.
The new force will be headed by a director general, likely appointed from the armed forces, and will be responsible for protecting dams, powerhouses, machinery, installations, offices, personnel, and residential facilities linked to Wapda projects.
Operating under its own uniform, insignia, and administrative structure, the Wapda Security Force will function in notified areas nationwide. The force is also expected to provide security support for projects such as the K-4 Greater Water Supply Scheme alongside Rangers, police, and Frontier Constabulary personnel.
The force will coordinate closely with law enforcement and intelligence agencies to ensure secure movement and protection of Wapda personnel and workers travelling to and from project sites. It will also assist authorities in preventing encroachments and unauthorized access around notified installations.
Under the proposed law, overall superintendence of the force will remain with the federal government, while operational control will rest with Wapda.
The strength of the force will be determined according to evolving security requirements. Personnel serving in the force will fall under the Essential Services Act and will not be permitted to engage in any other employment during service.
The draft legislation further states that the Industrial Relations Act, 2012, and the Industrial and Commercial Employment (Standing Orders) Ordinance, 1968, will not apply to officers and staff of the force.
To ensure operational protection, the proposed law grants legal indemnity to the government, Wapda, and members of the force for actions carried out in good faith while performing official duties under the act.
Story by Khaleeq Kiani
