Afghanistan Completes 3 Major Dam Projects

Matiullah Abid, the spokesperson for the ministry, stated that five other major projects are currently under implementation and are expected to be completed soon, Tolonews reported.

He also added that the construction of the Pashdan Dam in Herat has progressed by 95%, while the Peltoni Dam in Paktia has achieved 20% progress so far.

According to the information provided by the ministry, the Shah Aros Dam, with a cost of $250 million, has the capacity to irrigate 2,700 hectares of land and generate 1.2 megawatts of electricity. 

The Pashdan Dam, costing $117 million, can irrigate 13,000 jeribs of land and produce two megawatts of electricity.

The Omari Dam, with a cost of 127 million Afghanis, has the capacity to irrigate 560 hectares of land and generate six kilowatts of electricity, while the Paltuni Dam can irrigate 2,500 hectares of land and generate one megawatt of electricity.

Matiullah Abid emphasized: "The major projects implemented by the Ministry of Energy and Water this year include the Shah Aros, Omari, and Kamal Khan dams, which have been completed and put into operation."

Some experts stress that the construction and development of water dams play a crucial role in managing the country's water resources and meeting Afghanistan’s energy needs.

"The construction of dams is very important, especially in terms of hydroelectric energy production, as it reduces dependence on imported electricity and creates job opportunities,” said Economic expert Hasibullah Safi.

"The government must create a suitable environment for foreign investors in the energy sector, as energy is one of the key elements in production growth and economic development,” said another economic expert, Abdul Naseer Reshtia.

This comes as the Deputy Prime Minister for Economic Affairs recently emphasized at the International Water Conference in Kabul that, given the global decline in water resources, sustainable and efficient water management in Afghanistan is essential.

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