Sixteen Chinese and local groups have been prequalified for a canal construction contract on one of Pakistan's largest irrigation schemes, the Pat feeder canal rehabilitation and improvement project in Baluchistan.

The firms have prequalified to bid on a package of four contracts, known as group 7, to construct a new tertiary distribution system to improve water distribution from the main canal. This involves building a group of minor canals. It is one of the few remaining large packages still to be tendered on the project, which is due for completion by 1997.

The companies are:

Chinese companies: China Beijing Corporation for International Economic Co-operation, China National Water Resources & Hydropower Engineering Corporation, China National Overseas Engineering Corporation, China Jiin International, China Liaoning International Corporation, China State Construction Engineering, with the local Oasis Developers, China International Water & Electric Corporation, and China Yunnan Corporation for International Techno Economic Co-operation.

Local firms: Ramzan & Sons, Muhammad Ayub & Brothers, Saadullah Khan & Brothers, Al Khan Construction Company, Gul Muhammad Bangaizai & Brothers, Kamghar Builders in joint venture with Now Dynamic Construction Company and Mian Abdul Jaffar, Hassaini Construction Company, and Mian Abdul Latif & Company.

The Pat feeder project is financed by the Asian Development Bank. The consultants are the UK's Sir William Halcrow & Partners.