By: Abid Ali Khan
Tarbela Dam, once regarded as one of Pakistan’s most well-organized and exemplary residential and administrative infrastructures, has now fallen victim to mismanagement, irregularities, and poor strategic planning. The residential colonies under the administration of WAPDA’s Tarbela Water Wing—once known for cleanliness, greenery, and peaceful living—today present a picture of neglect and decay. According to sources, out of approximately 1,400 official housing units in the Water Wing, around 350 had been unlawfully occupied for years by retired employees. Acting on the directives of WAPDA Chairman Lieutenant General (R) Sajjad Ghani, these houses were recently vacated. The expectation was that leasing out these now-available units could generate monthly rental income of Rs. 5 to 6 million, providing much-needed financial relief to the organization. However, in a surprising turn of events, these units were reallocated to employees who were not eligible under the official criteria. Initially, a policy was introduced to charge 25% of the basic salary as rent, but this was later scrapped to favor select individuals. Not only was the policy reversed, but no rent was collected from the newly allotted occupants, resulting in significant monthly financial losses for WAPDA. Furthermore, when lower-grade employees were allocated larger units, their previously occupied smaller units were left abandoned. These houses, now in a dilapidated state, have been stripped of doors and windows, and in some cases, even walls have been demolished. This neglect has led to rampant theft and further destruction of valuable public assets—an alarming development with serious implications for the national exchequer. In addition to the housing crisis, the overall hygiene and maintenance conditions within the Tarbela colonies have deteriorated dramatically. Once a model of well-maintained lawns, clean streets, and orderly surroundings, the colonies are now plagued by garbage heaps, broken roads, faulty sewer systems, and widespread filth. Residents complain of an absentee cleaning staff and an indifferent administration that has failed to respond despite repeated complaints. Local residents, affected employees, and informed circles have called upon the WAPDA Chairman and the federal government to urgently intervene. They demand transparency in housing allotments, proper rent collection, rehabilitation of the colonies, and reversal of all unlawful allocations. Without prompt corrective measures, the administrative structure of a project as nationally vital as Tarbela risks complete collapse—placing an added burden on both the national treasury and the public.
