ISLAMABAD: The government has moved to establish a dedicated Wapda Security Force to protect major water sector infrastructure projects and workers, particularly Chinese nationals, following two terrorist attacks that killed multiple engineers and laborers at the $6 billion Dasu Hydropower Project.
The force is being created through the Wapda Security Force Act, 2026, which has been sent to parliament.
"The Wapda Security Force is being constituted to ensure the protection and security of critical infrastructure managed by the Water and Power Development Authority,” according to the statement of objects and reasons accompanying the legislation.
The decision follows attacks on the Dasu project in November 2021 and March 2024, in which several Chinese and Pakistani workers were killed.
The Chinese side suspended work on the project for more than a year after the violence, with operations resuming only after high level government engagement and compensation payments, despite cost overruns and delays.
The proposed Wapda Security Force Act, 2026 has been sent to parliament. It aims to protect dams, power plants, machinery, offices, residential facilities and workers, especially Chinese nationals on major projects.
— ProPakistani (@ProPakistaniPK) May 25, 2026
CPEC level security was initially extended only to the Dasu project. Following consultations with the Chinese side, the prime minister directed that such coverage apply to all projects involving Chinese nationals and other water sector projects of national importance, the official said.
The new force, led by a director general expected to come from the armed forces, will wear its own uniform and insignia and operate in notified areas across the country.
It will secure dams, powerhouses, machinery, equipment, offices, personnel and residences, and prevent related offenses.
Superintendence of the force will rest with the federal government, while control will remain with Wapda. The force will coordinate with law enforcement and intelligence agencies to protect personnel traveling to and from notified areas.
The force will provide security for projects including the K-4 Greater Water Supply Scheme in Sindh, working alongside Rangers and local police, and will operate with Frontier Constabulary forces in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan.
Force strength will be determined by security requirements. Officers and staff will be governed under the Essential Services Act and barred from outside employment.
The Industrial Relations Act, 2012, and the Industrial and Commercial Employment (Standing Orders) Ordinance, 1968, will not apply to force members.
