The 40.8 MW Koto Hydropower Project is inaugurated by KP Chief Minister Afridi

LOWER DIR (Channel News Pakistan) – Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi visited Lower Dir on Saturday and inaugurated the 40.8-megawatt Koto Hydropower Project.

The facility, which cost Rs21.7 billion to build, is anticipated to produce 207 million units of power every year, generating an estimated Rs2.4 billion in income.

During the inaugural event, authorities gave a briefing on the project’s importance in increasing the province’s energy capacity and economic growth.

In addition to the hydropower project, Chief Minister Afridi launched the 18.5-kilometer Tormang-Razgram Road, which cost Rs1.5 billion.

Speaking at the event, Afridi emphasized that the province administration is developing long-term plans to use hydropower resources as a foundation for economic growth.

He stated that initiatives that generate clean and economical energy will be critical in encouraging job creation and industrial expansion.

Afridi also unveiled the province’s first power transmission line, which would help transmit electricity from 11 hydroelectric plants. Power generated by local plants will be given to companies at reduced rates. He expressed his support for the provincial electricity distribution system, adding that the people of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa had primary control over their natural resources.

The chief minister voiced worry about delays in providing No Objection Certificates (NOCs) for foreign engineers’ visits, which have stalled multibillion-rupee projects. He warned that the delays will hurt not only Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, but the entire country.

Afridi lauded former Prime Minister Imran Khan, stating, “I am pleased to witness the initiatives he launched. These initiatives were created for the public, regardless of which administration would inaugurate them.”

He went on to express financial issues, claiming that the federal government still owes Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Rs3 trillion, which has not been paid.