The Water and Power Development Authority (WAPDA) has said that all workers have been safely evacuated following a water inflow incident during excavation work at the Tarbela 5th Extension Hydropower Project.

According to a WAPDA press release, a weak rock mass collapsed during excavation of the second bench connecting tunnel, allowing water from the intake pit to enter the tunnel and the powerhouse area.

The authority said the water from the intake pit has been completely drained, while dewatering of the under-construction powerhouse has started.

WAPDA clarified that reports about the collapse of the T-5 main tunnel were incorrect. It said there was no damage to the main tunnel, under-construction powerhouse, tailrace culvert or switchyard.

The authority further confirmed that no one was injured or lost their life in the incident.

Senior WAPDA officials, the project engineer and the contractor are assessing the situation to address any challenges to the project.