Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif inaugurated two coal-fired power plants in Sindh’s Tharparkar with a capacity of 1,650 megawatt of electricity generation, saying that the “projects would turn the desert into an economic hub”.
The projects, including the 1,320 megawatt Shanghai Electric power plant and 330 MW Thal Nova power plant, will annually generate 11.24 billion units of low-cost electricity. Through a direct investment of $3.53 billion into these projects, the production of coal-based electricity in Thar will increase by up to 3,300 MW.
Addressing the launch event in the Islamkot area of Thar, the premier said “it was a moment of celebration for the entire country that the desert of Tharparkar was getting a source of basic facilities for life”. Dismissing criticism by a section of people against Thar coal, the prime minister termed it a blessing with immense potential for power generation.
He expressed confidence that the ‘journey of progress’ would spread across the country and would strengthen the national economy. The premier also announced a hospital for the people of the region which will be funded by the federal government.
Shehbaz furthered that by April 30, the power turbines would be installed at the plants to generate electricity, which would then be supplied to the rest of the country. He also expressed gratitude to the government of China for extending support to Pakistan in carrying out development projects under the CPEC.
Courtesy Express Tribune
