By: Abid Ali Khan
Senior Journalist & Columnist
The Federal Government has filled a significant administrative vacuum by appointing a seasoned bureaucrat, Mr. Naveed Asghar Chaudhry, as the Acting Chairman of Pakistan’s premier national institution — the Water and Power Development Authority (WAPDA). This interim decision comes at a time when the country is facing acute challenges in water management, hydropower development, and financial discipline — both internally and externally.
According to the official notification issued by the Ministry of Water Resources on June 21, 2025, Mr. Naveed Asghar Chaudhry, currently serving as Member (Finance), WAPDA, has been assigned additional charge as Chairman for a period of three months or until the appointment of a regular Chairman, whichever comes earlier. His appointment has been made under Section 10 of the Civil Servants Act, 1973, and is effective immediately.
Professional Background of Naveed Asghar Chaudhry
Mr. Chaudhry is widely regarded as one of Pakistan’s experienced civil servants. In his capacity as Member (Finance), he has successfully streamlined the Authority’s financial operations and played a pivotal role in ensuring fiscal discipline and resource optimization. His interim appointment comes at a time when WAPDA urgently requires financial stability, transparency, and improved coordination with international agencies to carry forward its mega infrastructure projects.
Challenges Facing the Institution
WAPDA is currently overseeing critical hydropower projects, including Dasu, Mohmand, and Diamer-Bhasha dams. These ventures have faced delays, rising costs, and land acquisition hurdles. The Authority is battling a nationwide water crisis on one hand, and on the other, it is under pressure to enhance renewable energy output through large-scale investment.
The office of Chairman is not only the administrative helm of WAPDA but also serves as the government’s key interface with multilateral financing institutions. In such circumstances, the role of an acting chairman demands strategic foresight, operational precision, and political neutrality.
Editorial Perspective
The government’s decision to make this interim appointment reflects a clear recognition of WAPDA’s critical importance and the risks of leaving such a major institution leaderless. However, questions remain about the delay in appointing a permanent chairman. Is this delay symptomatic of bureaucratic indecision, and could it hinder long-term policy execution and institutional planning?
This interim term will also serve as a litmus test for Mr. Chaudhry himself, who must assert effective leadership within a limited timeframe, and navigate WAPDA through complex policy and financial terrains.
Conclusion
Leadership of an institution like WAPDA — a strategic national asset — cannot be taken lightly. Though Mr. Chaudhry’s appointment is temporary, its long-term impact could be significant. If backed by consistent government policy and institutional autonomy, his experience and financial acumen could offer WAPDA the stability and direction it currently needs.
