Peshawar: In a major step towards self-reliance in energy, the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) government has successfully completed three hydropower projects with a combined generation capacity of 63 megawatts (MW).
Officials said the projects are now operational and expected to generate nearly Rs 4.4 billion in annual revenue, offering a significant boost to the provincial economy.
Powering Growth Through Clean Energy
As per the remarks of the provincial Energy and Power Department, the three newly completed projects include the 40.8 MW Koto Hydropower Project in Dir, the 11.8 MW Karora Project in Shangla, and the 10.2 MW Jabori Project in Mansehra. Together, they not only expand KP’s clean energy portfolio but also pave the way for reducing reliance on expensive imported fuel.
Secretary Energy Muhammad Zubair Khan, while chairing a review meeting at PEDO House, said that the province was committed to harnessing its hydropower potential. He noted that work had been accelerated on laying a 40-kilometer transmission line in the Swat corridor, which is expected to be completed next year.
“Once functional, this will allow the sale of cheap electricity directly to the industrial sector, making KP an attractive hub for investment,” he emphasized.
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Flagship Projects in the Pipeline
In addition to the recently completed plants, construction is underway on seven major projects with a total capacity of over 700 MW.
These include
- 300 MW Balakot Project in Mansehra
- 157 MW Madain Project in Swat
- 88 MW Gabral Kalam Project
- 84 MW Matiltan Project in Swat
- 69 MW Lawi Project in Chitral
- 10.5 MW Chapri Charkhel Project in Kurram
- 6.9 MW Mujahideen Power Project in Torghar
Officials highlighted that the World Bank-supported Madain and Gabral Kalam projects are particularly crucial and urged their swift completion. The secretary also stressed the timely delivery of the Matiltan-Madain transmission line, calling it vital for the province’s future energy needs.
Driving Economic Transformation
With abundant hydropower resources, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa is increasingly positioning itself as a clean energy leader. The operational projects are anticipated to improve energy availability, reduce load-shedding and provide low-cost electricity to industries, thereby driving job creation and economic growth.
“Every project is being closely monitored via the use of progress charts, leaving no room for unnecessary delays,” Mr. Khan assured.