PM Forms Committee for Neelum Jhelum Project’s Design Faults
Around $5 billion of the country’s funds have been spent on this project
Staff Report
The Prime Minister announced the formation of a cabinet committee to determine the defects and responsibilities of the Neelum Jhelum Project’s Design Faults.
Defects or delays in public welfare projects cannot be tolerated under any circumstances,” stated Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif views during his visit to the Neelum Jhelum Hydropower Project.
Prime Minister Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif emphasized the unfortunate situation of spending billions of dollars only to expose design flaws, defects, or delays in such a crucial public welfare project.
The Prime Minister stressed the importance of submitting the final report this month.
He expressed these views during his visit to the Neelum Jhelum Hydropower Project.
The Prime Minister received a briefing on the Neelum Jhelum Hydropower Project, revealing that approximately $5 billion of the country’s funds had been expended on it.
Originally estimated at $840 million, the project’s costs escalated to $5 billion, accompanied by significant time delays. The Prime Minister highlighted the discrepancy between the cost per megawatt of the Neelum Jhelum project and the potential for alternative energy solutions.
He emphasized that while the project holds immense importance as one of Pakistan’s largest energy initiatives, it has faced repeated malfunctions, with the latest occurring in April 2024.
The Prime Minister called for accountability, stressing the need for a comprehensive investigation into the project’s failures.
He emphasized the importance of determining responsibility for the design flaws and delays.Neelum Jhelum plant’s closure: Consumers pay Rs 350m daily
Additionally, he underscored the necessity of expert involvement in the cabinet committee to ensure a thorough inquiry and effective solutions.
He condemned any abuse of public funds and reiterated the government’s commitment to addressing the nation’s concerns promptly.
The Prime Minister emphasized the urgency of rectifying the project’s faults and ensuring accountability for any negligence.
He urged swift action to address the faults and prevent further delays in the Neelum Jhelum Hydropower Project.