Diamer-Bhasha dam starts pozzolan extraction for main dam

Construction of the Diamer-Bhasha Dam has reached a key stage with the formal commencement of pozzolan extraction and transportation from Gini in Diamer district, Gilgit-Baltistan, Dawn reported on Friday. The extracted material is to be processed for use in roller-compacted concrete for the main dam, and the start of this work is a prerequisite for the next major phase of construction.

According to the newspaper, the Diamer-Bhasha Dam Project is divided into two main components: the main dam and other associated sub-structures. The pozzolan being extracted at Gini is intended specifically for the main dam, where it will be processed and then used in RCC placement.

Dawn stated that once the extracted pozzolan has been processed, RCC placement will formally commence at the site. The report did not give a date for that placement, but it confirmed that the extraction and transportation phase has now begun. The milestone is confined to the main dam component, with the associated sub-structures being handled separately under the project's division.

The start of this phase is a significant step for the main structure of the dam. Pozzolan is a natural material used in concrete; at Diamer-Bhasha, its availability and transport are necessary steps before roller-compacted concrete can be poured for the main dam.

The project is located on the Indus River in Diamer, Gilgit-Baltistan. Dawn's report noted that the main dam and other associated sub-structures are being handled as separate components of the overall Diamer-Bhasha Dam Project. With extraction now under way at Gini, attention will turn to processing the material and preparing the site for the RCC work that follows. The announcement reported by Dawn marks progress on one of the country's major water and power infrastructure initiatives.