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Senate Panel Raises Concerns Over Dasu–Islamabad Power Line and Lahore Drainage Project Delays
By Mariam Khan
Real Estate Analyst
3 min read
The Senate Standing Committee on Economic Affairs has raised concerns about procurement delays, rising project costs and possible procedural violations in major infrastructure projects. The committee's review was reported on October 30, 2026. Two projects received particular attention. No final finding of wrongdoing was reported, and the committee's questions are not findings. The Senate of Pakistan publishes its committee proceedings.
The Dasu–Islamabad 765kV Transmission Line
The committee questioned changes to the technical testing requirements for the Dasu–Islamabad 765kV transmission line. It warned that any irregularities identified could be referred to the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) or the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA). The reports we have seen do not say what the changes were, who made them or what irregularities were suspected. A warning of possible referral is not a referral, and we make no finding.
The Lahore Wastewater and Drainage Management Project
The committee questioned delays in appointing consultants for the Lahore Wastewater and Drainage Management Project and asked for the supporting procurement documents. The project is intended to improve sewerage and drainage infrastructure, including areas between LARECHS Colony and Gulshan-e-Ravi. The reports do not give the project's cost or the length of the delay.
Monitoring of Foreign-Funded Projects
The committee also called for stronger monitoring of foreign-funded development projects. The reports do not say what monitoring is proposed or whether the two projects are foreign-funded. Cooperation with foreign lenders is handled by the Economic Affairs Division.
What Is Not Known
The reports do not give the officials' replies, the deadline for the documents or the next meeting date. We therefore do not describe the answers given to the committee.
Why This Matters for Property
Delays in electricity transmission can affect long-term power availability for residential and industrial development. In Lahore, drainage improvements matter for reducing urban flooding risks and protecting homes and businesses. The committee's concerns also show how procurement delays can increase the cost of public construction. The reports do not link the projects to property prices, and we do not claim any effect.
What This Means for Residents and Investors
Residents of the Lahore areas named should not expect drainage works to progress quickly until consultants are appointed. Investors in power-dependent or flood-prone locations may want to follow the projects' progress. The signals to watch are the documents the committee receives, any referral to NAB or FIA, the appointment of consultants and any change to the project costs.