The Government of Pakistan has decided to establish a specialised security formation named the WAPDA Security Force to safeguard major water infrastructure projects across the country, including dams, hydropower plants, and other critical installations managed by the Water and Power Development Authority (WAPDA).

The move comes in response to serious security concerns, particularly following terrorist attacks on engineers and workers at the Dasu Hydropower Project in 2021 and 2024, which resulted in the loss of both Pakistani and Chinese lives and caused major project delays.

According to the proposed WAPDA Security Force Act, 2026, the new force will be responsible for providing dedicated protection to infrastructure sites and personnel, especially foreign engineers, including Chinese workers engaged in development projects.The force will operate under a structured command system likely headed by a Director General from the armed forces.

It will function in coordination with existing law enforcement agencies such as local police, Rangers, Frontier Corps, and intelligence agencies, depending on the region and threat level.

The force will have nationwide jurisdiction over notified water project areas and will be tasked with securing installations, machinery, offices, residential areas, and transportation routes of WAPDA personnel.It will also support broader national security efforts when required, particularly in protecting sensitive infrastructure.

The bill outlines that the force will have its own uniform, insignia, and operational structure, while administrative control will remain with WAPDA and overall supervision with the federal government.Additionally, the draft legislation places the force under the Essential Services Act, restricting officers from engaging in other employment.It also exempts personnel from certain labour laws and provides legal indemnity for actions taken in good faith.

The initiative reflects Pakistan’s broader effort to ensure enhanced security for strategic infrastructure projects and maintain investor and partner confidence, particularly in China-linked development initiatives.