The federal government has prioritized the swift execution of the Harpo Hydropower Project (HPP) in Gilgit-Baltistan, as a high-level committee convened under the chairmanship of Federal Minister for Water Resources, Mian Muhammad Mueen Wattoo, reviewed its progress and strategic importance.
Speaking at the meeting held at the Ministry of Water Resources, the minister underscored the developmental impact of the 34.5-megawatt run-of-river project, located in the Harpo Lungma region near Skardu. āThis project holds immense value for the people of Gilgit-Baltistan,ā he stated. āWe must expedite implementation, uphold delivery standards, and ensure transparency throughout.ā
The Harpo Hydropower Project, which draws water from the Harpo Nullahāa tributary of the Indus Riverāis expected to generate approximately 170 gigawatt-hours of clean electricity annually. Once completed, it will enhance regional power supply and benefit over 350,000 residents, while also contributing to Pakistanās broader renewable energy goals. The projectās groundbreaking ceremony was officiated by the Prime Minister in 2024.
During the meeting, committee members addressed outstanding issues, including financing mechanisms with the French development agency AFD and a funding gap identified in the PC-I document. The minister directed all concerned departments to expedite legal and procedural steps, resolve outstanding matters with relevant forums, and maintain accurate records, especially related to land acquisition.
He also stressed the importance of transparency, noting that all financial transactions must comply strictly with government guidelines. Regular updates and information accessibility for stakeholders and the public were also emphasized.
Minister Wattoo reaffirmed the governmentās commitment to promoting inclusive and equitable development through strategic infrastructure projects like HPP.
