Tarbela Dam Tunnel Protective Bund Collapse Triggers Emergency Response

SWABI: The protective bund of Tunnel-5 at the Tarbela Dam 5th Extension Project collapsed on Monday, resulting in a sudden surge of water from the dam’s reservoir, officials confirmed to Dawn.

An emergency was declared immediately following the incident, leading to the suspension of construction work and the evacuation of workers to safer areas. An eyewitness official described the event as a significant disaster, expressing uncertainty about the cause of the collapse.

This incident raises serious concerns regarding the safety protocols in place at major construction projects in Pakistan, particularly those involving critical infrastructure like dams. The surge of water poses risks not only to the ongoing construction but also to the surrounding communities, which could face flooding or other hazards.

Authorities are expected to launch an investigation into the cause of the collapse, with assessments likely to focus on structural integrity and adherence to safety regulations. Further updates will be provided as the situation develops.