Speech by Deputy PM Mullah Baradar Akhund at the Resumption Ceremony of Pashdan Dam Construction

28/04/1403

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful!

It brings me great pleasure to gather here today for the inauguration of a significant infrastructure project aimed at advancing our nation's development.

Alhamdulillah, the Islamic Emirate is firmly committed to effectively managing our natural resources, paving the path toward national self-sufficiency. Today, we are embarking on another crucial endeavor in overseeing one of the most vital elements which Almighty Allah has made essential for survival, a resource whose value is surpassing even that of oil on the global stage day by day.

The Islamic Emirate holds a firm resolve and determination to effectively manage our natural resources, propelling our nation towards self-sufficiency. Over the past two decades, Afghanistan has endured occupation, wars, political and economic instability, climate change, and a burgeoning population, leading to severe social and economic challenges.

It is imperative to recognize the sacrifices made by the people of Herat in the struggle for their country's freedom and to complete large-scale projects capable of addressing their economic woes.

With the re-establishment of the Islamic Emirate, efforts are underway not only to promote the country's self-sufficiency and foster social and economic development but also to ensure the judicious utilization of natural resources.

During the meetings of the Cabinet and the Economic Commission of the Islamic Emirate, task forces were formed under the guidance of the Ministry of Water and Energy to address major dam projects that remained unfinished. Comprehensive plans were meticulously crafted, leading to the initiation of practical work on numerous dams, with more slated to commence in the near future. One of them is the Pashdan Dam, and today marks the inauguration of completing its remaining phase.

Upon the finalization of the Pashdan Dam endeavor, thousands of individuals will secure employment both directly and indirectly. Additionally, the project will facilitate the storage of approximately 54 million cubic meters of water, irrigating 13 thousand hectares of land, and generating two megawatts of electricity.

The Pashdan Dam stands as a crucial endeavor for the province of Herat, and we are steadfast in our dedication to its completion, striving with unwavering effort and sincerity. We urge the contractor company to fulfill their obligations promptly and with utmost trustworthiness, ensuring the timely execution of this vital project.

In addition to power generation and water management, the Islamic Emirate has taken several concrete steps in other areas. Examples include the Qosh Tepa Canal project, the initiation of the second phase of the Kajaki Dam, the commencement of remaining works on the Bakhshabad, Kamal Khan, and Shah Wa Aros dams, the construction of hundreds of check dams, the initiation of small and medium dam projects, the completion of the Amu River wall project, the extension of power lines from north to south, the construction and reconstruction of substations, and the launch of solar and wind power projects across various provinces.

Furthermore, the Islamic Emirate is making concerted efforts to attract domestic and foreign investors and provide conducive environments for investment in the electricity sector. A notable example is the investment by domestic and foreign companies in Sarubi district, Kabul province, in 10 MW and 23 MW solar power generation projects.

In closing, I extend my gratitude to the esteemed officials of Herat province and its hospitable people for their warm reception and hospitality.

Thank you for your attention.