Personal bio

Waseem Raza FCIArb
Chief Engineer & PD Indus Basin Irrigation System | Dispute Resolution Specialist | Fellow, CIArb | Member, Dispute Resolution Board Foundation (USA)

I am a seasoned dispute resolution and infrastructure development professional with more than two decades of experience leading large-scale hydropower, renewable energy, and water resource projects across Pakistan. I hold the Fellowship of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators (UK) and am an active member of the Dispute Resolution Board Foundation (USA). In addition, I am a Pakistan Engineering Council (PEC) Accredited Arbitrator and included in the PEC Pool of Experts. My expertise spans Dispute Boards (DAAB/DRB), international arbitration under UNCITRAL and FIDIC frameworks, procurement law, and high-value contract negotiation.
Currently, I serve as Chief Engineer & Project Director, Indus Basin Irrigation System, Pakistan, where I oversee the national telemetry initiative for water accounting and have the unique opportunity to address complex water-related disputes, including those among provinces and at transboundary levels. Prior to this, I was Director General of the WAPDA Environment Cell, leading efforts to align Pakistan’s water and power development with global environmental, social, and climate standards.
My project leadership includes directing the 1530 MW Tarbela 5th Extension Hydropower Project and the 300 MW Floating Solar Project (in collaboration with the World Bank and AIIB), both involving high-stakes EPC contracts, dispute resolution processes, and multi-stakeholder coordination. I also bring extensive hands-on experience with FIDIC Red and Pink Books, having served as Engineer, Project Manager, and DAAB focal person on landmark projects such as Diamer Basha Dam, Mohmand Dam, and Satpara Dam.
Beyond project management, I actively contribute to global dialogue through World Bank, DRBF, and UNCITRAL-led forums and have undergone specialized training in procurement, PPPs, dispute board administration, and UNCITRAL model laws.