apropos your report ‘Balochistan cabinet shocked by CPEC presentation’ (Dec 11). The report talks about the 280km-long water pipeline from the Pat Feeder canal to Quetta. There will be nine pumping stations on the way and the project will cost Rs40bn.

The cost is probably high due to the torturous terrain, etc. Barring pipeline material/laying and pump costs, all other costs can be avoided if we lay the pipeline above ground on both sides of the railway track. This will require a reassessment and strengthening of existing railway bridges.

N. Raza

Karachi

Published in Dawn, December 23rd, 2018