WAPDA's role in Arshad Nadeem's rise

Arshad Nadeem, Pakistan's star javelin thrower, has been a dedicated employee of the WAPDA Sports Board since 2016.

His recruitment was approved by then-Chairman WAPDA, General (retd) Muzammil, who facilitated Nadeem's induction into Grade 11, according to sources within WAPDA.

Nadeem's outstanding performances on the global stage, particularly in recent years, earned him a promotion to Grade 18 in 2020, a significant upgrade from his initial position.

WAPDA took a keen interest in his development early on, preparing him for the 2016 Asian Junior Championship, an initiative that has borne fruit in his subsequent international achievements.

Sources further revealed that the Chief Executive of LESCO has now recommended Nadeem for another promotion, this time to Grade 19, in recognition of his continued excellence in athletics.

The final decision on this promotion will be taken by the WAPDA Sports Board, pending approval from the current Chairman, General (retd) Sajjad Ghani. A notification is expected to be issued soon.

WAPDA sources dismissed recent claims circulating on social media regarding the absence of javelins and inadequate training facilities for athletes like Nadeem, terming them as baseless propaganda.

They emphasised that many of the country's national heroes, including Arshad Nadeem, wrestler Inam Butt, weightlifter Noah Dastgir, and powerlifter Mah Noor, enjoy full support from WAPDA.

Additionally, it was noted that Nadeem managed to escape the downsizing efforts that targeted sports departments during the tenure of former Prime Minister Imran Khan.

Despite orders from various departments to shut down sports divisions, WAPDA ensured the continuation of its sports programs, allowing athletes like Nadeem to continue their training and representation of Pakistan on the world stage.