Water entered a tunnel and the powerhouse of the Tarbela Dam 5th Extension Hydropower Project (T-5) construction site after a weak section of rock collapsed during excavation on Monday. In a statement, the Water and Power Development Authority (Wapda) confirmed that all workers were safely evacuated following the water inflow incident.

A Wapda spokesperson stated that the rock fell during the excavation of the second bench of the connecting tunnel. Water subsequently flowed from the intake pit into the tunnel and the powerhouse.

All workers were immediately evacuated, and no casualties were reported. The spokesperson confirmed that water has been drained from the intake pit, and dewatering of the under-construction powerhouse is underway.

Officials noted that no further water is entering the downstream work sites. Senior Wapda officers, consultants, and the contractor are currently assessing the situation to address project challenges.

The official dismissed reports of a tunnel collapse as incorrect, clarifying that the main tunnel, powerhouse, tailrace culvert, and switchyard remain undamaged. Separately, the Haripur deputy commissioner reported that a protective embankment at the T-5 intake breached after a girder fell.

Sources indicate that work at the Tarbela T-5 project in Haripur has been suspended indefinitely. The project, which is a critical component of Pakistan's energy infrastructure, aims to increase the generation capacity of the Tarbela Dam.

Authorities are conducting a thorough investigation to determine the exact cause of the rockfall. The management has assured that safety protocols were followed during the evacuation process.

Further updates regarding the resumption of work will be provided once the site is declared safe by the engineering teams. The incident has drawn attention to the geological complexities involved in large-scale infrastructure projects.

Wapda remains committed to the timely completion of the T-5 project despite the current setback. The focus remains on stabilizing the site and ensuring the structural integrity of the ongoing construction works.

No damage to the main dam structure has been reported, ensuring the safety of the reservoir. Local administration in Haripur is coordinating with Wapda to manage the situation on the ground.

The project site remains under strict monitoring to prevent any further incidents. The government has directed the relevant departments to submit a detailed report on the incident.

The T-5 project is expected to significantly contribute to the national grid upon completion. Experts suggest that such challenges are part of the risks associated with deep excavation in mountainous terrains.

The priority remains the safety of the workforce and the protection of the national asset.