Islamabad, The Neelum Jhelum Hydroelectric Project has reached its full generation capacity of 969 megawatts (MW) following the completion of inspection and rehabilitation work on its tail race tunnel (TRT). The project, crucial for meeting Pakistan’s electricity demands, is now fully operational, providing significant power supply during the critical hours of Sehr and Iftar in the holy month of Ramadan.
According to Pakistan Water and Power Development Authority, the Neelum Jhelum Hydroelectric Project was temporarily halted on January 10 for scheduled inspection and maintenance of the TRT. After thorough examination and successful completion of the necessary works, the facility resumed its energy generation activities earlier this month. The inspection involved an International Panel of Experts to ensure the project’s integrity and performance.
Situated in Azad Jammu and Kashmir on the River Neelum, the project is noted for its engineering feat, being 90% underground and carved through the mountains. Completed in 2018, it features a dam at Nauseri, extensive underground waterways spanning 52 kilometers, and an underground powerhouse at Chattar Kalas equipped with four units each capable of producing 242.25 MW.
The Neelum Jhelum Hydroelectric Project, with an average annual energy output of 4.6 billion units, has contributed a total of 19.562 billion units of clean electricity to the national grid since its inception. This achievement underscores its significant role in bolstering the country’s power supply and enhancing the sustainability of its energy resources.