Inquiry Report Finds Multiple Parties Responsible for Tarbela-5 Cofferdam Collapse
A government inquiry has concluded that the collapse of the cofferdam at the Tarbela-5 Extension Hydropower Project resulted from a combination of issues involving the project’s contractor, engineering consultant, and employer, according to findings released in an official investigation.
The incident has contributed to significant project delays and a sharp increase in construction costs, affecting one of Pakistan’s major hydropower developments.
Report Highlights Design and Contract Management Issues
The inquiry committee found that changes were made to the original cofferdam design after the contract had been awarded. According to the report, these modifications were approved without fully addressing contractual and technical requirements.
Investigators stated that responsibilities were shared among the contractor, the supervising consultant, and the Water and Power Development Authority (WAPDA), with each party playing a role in decisions that ultimately affected the project’s structural integrity.
The committee concluded that stronger compliance with engineering standards, contract provisions, and technical review procedures could have reduced project risks.
Project Faces Delays and Rising Costs
Originally approved with an estimated cost of approximately Rs82 billion, the Tarbela-5 Extension Project has experienced substantial cost increases over the years. Current estimates place the project’s cost at around Rs317 billion, while completion has been pushed back beyond the original schedule.
The project, which is supported through financing from international development institutions, is now expected to be completed in 2028, instead of the earlier target date.
Flooding Not Identified as Primary Cause
The inquiry examined whether unusually high river flows caused the cofferdam failure.
According to the committee, water levels during the incident remained within historical operating ranges and were not considered extraordinary. Investigators instead pointed to concerns related to design implementation and construction practices as key contributing factors.
The report also noted the importance of adequate protective measures and quality control during construction.
Recommendations for Future Infrastructure Projects
The inquiry emphasized the need for stronger project governance, improved engineering oversight, and closer monitoring throughout the construction process.
Officials recommended stricter compliance with contractual obligations, independent technical reviews, and enhanced supervision to help reduce risks in future large-scale infrastructure projects.
The Tarbela-5 Extension Hydropower Project remains an important part of Pakistan’s long-term energy strategy, and authorities are expected to continue work toward its completion while implementing lessons identified through the investigation.
