ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s Minister for Planning, Development, and Special Initiatives, Ahsan Iqbal, chaired a high-level meeting to assess the current status and next steps for the rehabilitation of the Neelam Jhelum Hydro Power Project (NJHPP).
The session brought together key stakeholders, including federal ministers, experts, and officials from WAPDA and the Ministry of Water Resources, to tackle ongoing challenges and ensure the project aligns with Pakistan’s energy goals.
Following directives from the Prime Minister issued in May, an International Panel of Experts (IPOE) was appointed to investigate the structural issues affecting the project’s Head Race Tunnel (HRT). This panel, which includes a renowned Pakistani geologist, was tasked with identifying the root causes of the recent challenges faced by the project.
During the meeting, officials provided an update on the dewatering activities that commenced in May and were successfully completed by July. This critical step enabled the IPOE to conduct an on-site inspection in September, leading to the submission of an Inception Report detailing the current state of the tunnel infrastructure. The report pinpointed areas of the tunnel floor that require attention and included recommendations for enhancing ventilation, lighting, and worker safety.
The experts’ Terms of Reference (TORs) involve a comprehensive evaluation of factors affecting the tunnel, alongside recommendations for improvements in design, construction, and contract management. They also proposed a risk assessment for both the HRT and Tail Race Tunnel (TRT) and outlined steps for a recovery plan.
In concluding the meeting, the Planning Minister emphasized the importance of a detailed action plan and encouraged ongoing collaboration with independent experts. A follow-up session is set for next week to further refine strategies for the project’s rehabilitation.
Located in the scenic Neelam Valley, the Neelam Jhelum Hydro Power Project (NJHPP) is a key component of Pakistan’s renewable energy strategy. With a capacity of 969 megawatts, NJHPP aims to meet the region’s growing energy demands while significantly contributing to the national grid, thereby promoting economic growth and environmental sustainability.