Tarbela Fifth Extension work halted after water enters Tunnel 5
Water entered the connecting tunnel and the under-construction powerhouse during excavation, and WAPDA says the main tunnel was not damaged while an inquiry begins.
Construction on the Tarbela Fifth Extension (T5) Hydropower Project was suspended on Monday after water entered Tunnel No. 5.
WAPDA says a weak section of rock fell during excavation; it rejected reports that Tunnel 5 had collapsed.
One Pakistani worker was swept away and rescued; no casualties have been reported.
WAPDA says the main tunnel, powerhouse, tailrace culvert and switchyard were not damaged; a high-level committee will decide when work resumes.
The project will add 1,530MW, with completion now targeted for September 2027.