By Ayesha Saba
ISLAMABAD, Oct 19 (Wealth Pakistan): The World Bank-funded 500 kV Tarbela 5th Extension Transmission Line Project under the Public Sector Development Programme (PSDP) has reached an advanced stage, achieving 87.5 percent physical and 87 percent financial progress as of September 29, 2025.
Implemented by M/s Netracon in joint venture with MMP-BIDR (JV), the project aims to upgrade Pakistan’s high-voltage grid and ensure reliable power evacuation from the Tarbela Hydropower Station to the national transmission network.
Project Scope and Revised Timeline
According to documents available with Wealth Pakistan, the project has a PC-1 cost of Rs 4,140.33 million and a contract value of Rs 2,504 million (USD 24 million).
Originally scheduled for completion by November 3, 2024, the target has been revised to December 30, 2025. Work continues steadily across multiple fronts with design and engineering 97.5 percent complete, procurement 97.2 percent, civil works 85 percent, and erection 76 percent. Stringing activities have reached 29 percent, while testing and commissioning will follow in the final phase.
Enhancing Pakistan’s Grid Reliability
Officials from the National Transmission and Despatch Company Ltd (NTDC) said the Tarbela extension is critical for strengthening Pakistan’s power transmission infrastructure and improving grid reliability.
Once completed, the new line will enhance system stability, reduce bottlenecks, and facilitate efficient power transfer from Tarbela’s hydropower generation to the national grid, supporting the government’s goal of ensuring uninterrupted and sustainable electricity supply nationwide.