China and Pakistan celebrate the completion of suki kinari power transmission line
The project involved the construction of a 75-kilometer-long, 500kV double-circuit transmission line built to evacuate power from the 884 MW Sukki Kinari hydropower project to the national grid. This achievement marks a significant milestone in the collaboration between Pakistan and China under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) initiative. Spanning elevations from 696m to 1967m above sea level, the Sukki Kinari transmission line stands as a testament to excellence and perseverance in engineering. It is considered one of the most challenging power transmission lines in the history of Pakistan. The project's difficulty is comparable to that of the Karakoram Highway Project, also known as the China–Pakistan Friendship Highway.
Mr. Rana Mashood Ahmad Khan, Chairman of the PM Youth Programs Pakistan, delivered a heartfelt speech, emphasizing the deep and enduring bond between Pakistan and China. He praised the exceptional contributions of Mr. Gai, Project Manager of NEPCII. Mr. Khan mentioned the increasing interest from Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and other countries in investing in Pakistan, reflecting the country's growing appeal as a hub for international investment.
Senator Rana Mahmood ul Hassan, Chairman of the Cabinet Committee Senate Pakistan, also honored the ceremony with his presence. In his speech, he expressed profound gratitude to NTDC, NESPAK, NEPCII, MKEC, and all the subcontractors for their dedicated efforts and collaboration. He acclaimed the project as a testament to the strength of Pakistan-China relations and a significant step forward in the nation's quest for energy security. Senator Hassan's words echoed the collective sentiment of pride and accomplishment shared by all attendees.
Shah Jahan Mirza, Managing Director of the Private Power Infrastructure Board (PPIB), provided an insightful overview of the project's impact. He stated that one of the largest green projects in the private sector, the Sukki Kinari hydropower project, with an investment of $1.8 billion and a capacity of 884 megawatts under the CPEC portfolio, will soon begin transmitting green and low-cost power through the newly completed 500kV transmission line. It will also save billions of dollars annually in crude oil and LNG costs. This transmission line project stands as a marvel of engineering and a symbol of the fruitful partnership between Pakistan and China.
Mr. Muhammad Mustafa, Deputy Managing Director of NTDC, expressed his views and extended his heartfelt congratulations to his entire team, including the General Manager, Chief Engineer, Project Director, Executive Engineers, and SDOs. He commended the exceptional services provided by NESPAK, the project's consultant, and acknowledged the perseverance and dedication of Mr. Gai. Additionally, he recognized the significant contributions of Mr. Shahid Mahmood, Chief Executive of MK Engineers and Constructors (Pvt) Ltd and all the subcontractors involved in the project.
Mr. Wang, General Manager of the China Energy Group's Pakistan branch, shared his views on the longstanding friendship between Pakistan and China. He applauded the unwavering support of the Pakistan Government and the exemplary leadership of Project Manager Mr. Gai Xiqiang. Mr. Wang congratulated all stakeholders on the successful completion of the Suki Kinari Project, emphasizing its significance as a cornerstone of the CPEC initiative and a inspiration of progress and cooperation.
The ceremony concluded with a renewed sense of optimism and commitment to further strengthening the strategic partnership between Pakistan and China. The successful completion of the 500kV Sukki Kinari Transmission Line Project not only enhances Pakistan's energy infrastructure but also serves as a shining example of what can be achieved through international collaboration and shared vision.
Editor：Kamran Raja
