Exciting news for green energy fans! 🌿 The China-built Balakot Hydropower Project in northwest Khyber Pakhtunkhwa just hit a major milestone – river closure – signaling the start of the dam's main construction phase on the Kunhar River.
Kicked off in September 2021, this 300MW powerhouse is being delivered by China Energy Engineering Corporation's subsidiary, China Gezhouba Group Third Engineering. At the closure ceremony, Syed Habib Ullah Shah, CEO of the Pakhtunkhwa Energy Development Organization, called it the largest hydropower project under construction in KP.
Once up and running, the dam will generate around 1.144 billion kilowatt-hours of clean electricity each year – enough juice to light up 1.8 million people's homes. ⚡ That's like powering the entire population of Yangon or more than double the residents of Colombo!
Beyond big numbers, the project promises serious environmental and economic perks: cutting carbon emissions, slashing Pakistan's reliance on imported fuel, and supercharging the country's energy security. 🌍💪 Shah says the project will support climate goals and boost resilience.
Mao Huigang, GM of China Gezhouba Group Third Engineering, noted the project has already created over 2,000 local jobs and sparked growth in construction, materials, and service industries. Talk about a win-win! 🎉
For tech-savvy, eco-conscious young pros across South and Southeast Asia, Balakot's river closure is more than a construction update – it's a sign that sustainable infrastructure can drive real progress. Stay tuned as this mega-dam transforms from blueprint to powerhouse! 🔋🚀
Reference(s):
River closed as China-built Balakot hydropower dam enters main phase
cgtn.com
