Peshawar, 20 June 2023 (TDI): U.S. Ambassador Donald Blome, along with top officials, recently visited the Gomal Zam Dam in the South Waziristan District of the Newly Merged Districts (NMDs) of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
The visit highlighted the successful joint venture between the United States and Pakistan, resulting in significant achievements.
Under the U.S.-Pakistan “Green Alliance” framework, both nations have collaborated on advancing water management, clean energy, and climate-smart agriculture initiatives.
The Gomal Zam Dam, a key element of this partnership, has emerged as a game-changer. This ambitious project, valued at 0 million, has delivered remarkable outcomes for the region.
Agricultural production in the area has witnessed a substantial boost, with the dam opening up an additional 191,000 acres of land for local farmers. This expansion has effectively doubled the agricultural output.
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Furthermore, the dam has successfully mitigated potential flood damage for more than 30,000 households, significantly increased Pakistan’s water storage capacity, and provided electricity to approximately 20,000 homes.
Expressing his pride in the collaboration, Ambassador Blome stated, “We are immensely proud of our $130 million collaboration with the Government of Pakistan on the Gomal Zam Multi-purpose Project, including the dam, irrigation infrastructure, and direct support to surrounding communities.”
Ranked as the third-largest water storage facility in Pakistan, following the U.S.-funded Tarbela and Mangla Dams, the Gomal Zam Dam plays a crucial role in Pakistan’s strategy for climate change management and overall food security.
With an additional generation capacity of 17 megawatts of clean hydropower, the dam provides a reliable and sustainable energy source, empowering farmers to enhance their socio-economic conditions.
The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) has invested 0 million in the Gomal Zam Dam, including the irrigation infrastructure and agricultural development components.
The Government of Pakistan and the provincial government of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa have equally contributed to the project’s cost, highlighting the commitment to mutual progress and development.
