Chinese firm shows interest in 100-MW hydropower project in Gilgit

GILGIT: The China Water Resources Beifang Investigation, Design and Research company has expressed interest in constructing a 100-megawatt Power Project near the Karakoram International University in Gilgit.

The run-of-the-river power project, included in the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) in 2018, has yet to commence. Official documents list its status as ‘under review of experts from both sides (Pakistan and China).’

The latest discussion of the project during a meeting with Gilgit-Baltistan Chief Minister Haji Gulbar Khan on Wednesday has given hope for its advancement. Chief Minister Khan reiterated the government’s support for investments in the power sector, highlighting the significant potential for power generation in Gilgit-Baltistan. Khan mentioned that despite the region’s capability to produce over 40,000 megawatts of electricity, it faces a severe power crisis.

During the meeting, the Chief Minister emphasized the regional government’s dedication to attracting investment to the power sector and solving the problems investors face. Following the interest shown by the Chinese company, Khan requested the preparation of a letter of interest, promising that the government would ensure the necessary procedures are followed for the project’s development.

The Chief Minister directed the Chairman of the Board of Investment, Fateh Ullah Khan, the Additional Chief Secretary of Development for Gilgit-Baltistan, and the Secretary of Power to provide full support to investors in the power sector and to ensure that investments are made a priority.

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The step is seen as vital in prioritizing power sector investments to address the energy shortage and promote economic growth in Gilgit-Baltistan. It’s crucial to highlight that the region is grappling with a severe power crisis, as residents face up to 23 hours of load shedding daily.

This dire situation underscores the urgency and significance of the discussed power project and the government’s efforts to attract investment in the power sector.