Lahore: The strategically important 969 MW-Neelum Jhelum Hydropower project will mark a major mile stone on May 5 towards its completion, as excavation of about 68-kilometer long tunnels system of the project will stand completed, when the second Tunnel Boring Machine (TBM) deployed on the project will break through the Right Headrace Tunnel. With this significant development, the water way system of the project will enter the final phase which is scheduled to be completed in seven months. Thereafter, the tunnels will be ready to divert water from Dam site to Power House.
Neelum Jhelum Hydro Power Project is a component of least-cost energy generation plan, which is being implemented by WAPDA in pursuing the Federal Government’s resolve to end loadshedding and provide electricity to the people at affordable rates.
First unit of Neelum Jhelum Hydro Power Project will start electricity generation by the end February 2018, the second unit in mid March, whereas the third and the fourth units will be completed in April 2018. On its completion, the project will contribute about five billion units of electricity to the National Grid every year.