The bidders will be asked to bid for one or more of three civil works packages. They are: a barrage seven kilometres downstream of the Tarbela dam, estimated to cost $300 million; a 52-kilometre power channel through which the water will be diverted, estimated to cost $400 million; and a generation complex, estimated to cost $350 million. The total project cost is estimated at $2,100 million.

The tender documents are being prepared by the local Pakistan Hydro Consultants, a joint venture comprising Harza Engineering Company International of the US, Ewbank Preece and Binnie & Partners, both of the UK, and National Engineering Services (Pakistan - Nespak) and Associated Consulting Engineers, both local.