News Brief
China Halts Work On Dam Projects In Pakistan After Five Chinese Nationals Killed In Suicide Bomb Attack: All About It
Dasu Dam project. Source: Dawn
Chinese contractors have suspended construction on two major dam projects in Pakistan following a suicide bomber attack that killed five Chinese engineers and a Pakistani driver earlier this week.
The halt in construction comes as the Chinese companies demand new security arrangements from Pakistani authorities before resuming work at the sites, which currently host approximately 1,250 Chinese nationals.
As reported by NDTV, the deadly attack occurred on Tuesday (26 March) when a suicide bomber targeted the vehicle on a mountainous road near one of the dam sites, detonating explosives upon impact and causing the vehicle to plummet into a ravine.
Subsequently, China Gezhouba Group Company has suspended work on the Dasu dam project in the province, while Power China has halted work on the Diamer Bhasha dam spanning two provinces.
The Dasu Dam project employs around 750 Chinese engineers, while 500 are engaged in the Diamer Bhasha Dam project.
While China has not issued a statement, it has reportedly urged Pakistan to ensure the safety of its nationals and projects in the country.
Following the attack, the Chinese embassy in Islamabad witnessed a flurry of diplomatic engagements, with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and other top officials expressing condolences.
Meanwhile, concerns persist among Pakistanis regarding equitable job opportunities and wealth distribution from Chinese investment projects.
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