CHILAS, September 9: The Diamer Basha Dam Project is set to achieve another major milestone as roller-compacted concrete (RCC) works on the main dam are scheduled to commence in early 2026, following completion of RCC trials and excavation of the abutments and foundation pit later this year. Chairman WAPDA Lt Gen Muhammad Saeed (Retd) visited the project site, accompanied by DG FWO Maj Gen Abdul Sami, CEO Diamer Basha Dam Company, senior project officials, consultants, and contractors. He inspected key sites including the crushing plant, diversion tunnel, coffer dams, RCC…
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Reko Diq Project Nears Financial Closure, Poised to Unlock $74bn in Cash Flows
ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s long-delayed Reko Diq copper and gold project is set to achieve financial closure by the end of September or early October, in what officials describe as a landmark development for the country’s mining and investment landscape. Located in Balochistan’s Chagai district, the project is expected to generate \$74 billion in free cash flows over its 37-year life, making it a cornerstone of Pakistan’s economic strategy. The Boards of OGDCL, PPL and GHPL have approved \$715 million in project costs, raising the total to \$7.48 billion. Despite the adjustment,…
Read More‘China Inside’: How Chinese EV Technology is Redefining Global Auto Design
SHANGHAI/MILAN: When Audi engineers first examined the Zeekr 001 in 2021 — a sleek, long-range EV with European styling — they realised competing with Chinese automakers would require embracing Chinese technology. Within 18 months, Audi developed the AUDI E5 Sportback using batteries, powertrain, software, and driver-assist systems from Chinese partner SAIC, now set for launch in China at \$33,000. Audi is not alone. Toyota and Volkswagen are working with GAC and Xpeng, while Renault and Ford are exploring global EVs built on Chinese platforms. Analysts say such partnerships offer a…
Read MorePM Approves Use of Seized Solar Panels for Gilgit-Baltistan and Gwadar Power Projects
ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has approved the utilisation of confiscated solar panels lying at Karachi Port for critical power projects in Gilgit-Baltistan (GB) and Gwadar, aiming to tackle chronic energy shortages and promote clean energy solutions. Under the plan, 100 MW of solar capacity will be deployed across remote sites in GB, while the remaining panels will be used to solarise water supply schemes in Gwadar. The National Logistics Cell (NLC) will transport the equipment, while the Power Division, PPIB, PPMC, and GB authorities assess the panels’ technical viability.…
Read MorePrivate Sector Demands Allocation of Indigenous Gas Amid LNG Glut
ISLAMABAD: The private sector has urged the government to allocate surplus indigenous gas to private shippers, arguing that continued curtailment in favour of imported LNG is damaging both producers and consumers. Industry players note that reluctance to lift LNG cargoes has created a market glut, forcing several cargo diversions. Meanwhile, local gas supplies have been curtailed by 300–400 mmcfd, causing losses estimated at Rs12 billion for exploration companies. Although the government earlier raised third-party allocation from 10% to 35%, the policy has yet to be implemented, frustrating private shippers. Exploration…
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