Introduction:

Pakistan has been blessed with abundant water resources, with rivers flowing down the
Himalayas and Karakoram heights from the worlds largest glaciers and free and unique bounty
for this land. However, these rivers enter the country before going through India, with which
Pakistan has long history of conflict. On many occasions, Indian have released extra waters
towards Pakistan, may be it because of losing control or for just twisting the hand of Pakistan for
political reasons. Besides, impact of extreme weathers (rainfall and sunlight) this has been one of
the main reasons Pakistan have to face flood every year which have a major impact on the
countrys economy. Agriculture is regarded as the backbone of the Pakistans economy. It
contributes 21 percent of the GDP. About more half of the countrys labor force is employed in
this sector and is also the major user of water consumption. Therefore, floods not only
economically impact Pakistan but also affects the livelihood of the people. To counter this, the
Pakistan government has begun to take steps to reduce their reliance on India giving Pakistan
access to water. One of the measure is upgrading of Trimmu barrage on the Chenab River,
Punjab region. This project was proposed back in year 2014 by the government. Objective is to
increase the discharge capacity of the barrage and therefore the risk of damaging crop,
infrastructure, livestock etc due to uncontrolled breaching in case of flood will be minimized.
Also, provide local unemployed youth with jobs and training in the process. The government of
Pakistan is collaborating with Asian Development bank (ADB) for implementation of this
project. Upgrading of Trimmu barrage project has been awarded to National Engineering
Services Pakistan (NESPAK) and it has been valued at PKR 16.1 billion ($160 million) for
consultancy and construction. At present, project has just started with its construction work.
Following are the stakeholders which are involved in the project (Exhibit#1):-

ADB (Project Financer): Set up in 1960 with a mission is to help developing member
countries reduce poverty and improve the quality of life of their people. Includes 67
members, majority of whom are located in Asia Pacific region.
Govt. of Punjab (Project Sponsor): Newly elected government with an aim to improve the
living standard of the country through organic economic growth.
NesPak (Project Manager/ Consultant): A Pakistani multinational state-owned corporation
providing consulting, construction, and management services globally
 SinoPec (Contractor):
Farmers (Key Stakeholder)- Impact on livelihood
Villagers (Key Stakeholder)- Involuntary re-location)

Besides, the project also aims to support the livelihood of farming families and reduce flood risks
1.74 million hectares of farmland, broader economic strategy to create organic sustainable.