Ayesha Saba

In a significant step toward strengthening the power transmission network in Balochistan, the National Grid Company (NGC) has officially selected a site in Mastung district for the installation of a 220kV grid station.

The National Grid Company operates under the Ministry of Energy (Power Division).

According to documents obtained by Wealth Pakistan, an initial survey of six proposed sites was conducted for land acquisition and technical assessment. After thorough evaluation and inter-departmental consultations, the committee unanimously selected Moza Chakol Kalozai, located approximately 3 kilometres from Mastung city. Moza Chakol Kalozai is considered the most suitable location for the new grid station.

The site selection process was conducted in accordance with the Land Acquisition Act of 1894 and NTDC’s established SOPs and technical Performa. The process involved multiple stages, beginning with field surveys by the Land Directorate and Survey & Investigation (S&I) teams, followed by detailed scrutiny by a preliminary committee comprising representatives from the Design, Environment, Civil, and Land Directorates.

The committee’s recommendations were subsequently reviewed by the Chief Engineer (Design), who convened the Sitting and Layout Board to finalize the selection after on-site inspections and evaluation of all technical parameters. Officials from the Ministry of Energy emphasized that the establishment of the 220kV Mastung Grid Station will play a vital role in enhancing power transmission reliability, reducing load constraints, and improving voltage stability in southern Balochistan—an essential step toward ensuring sustainable energy access for the region.

The documents further indicate steady progress on the 765/500/220/132 kV Islamabad West Grid Station (Lot-IV)—a World Bank–financed project under Pakistan’s power infrastructure enhancement program. According to NTDC updates, executed by M/s NWEPDI–TBEA JV with M/s GOPA Intec as consultant, the USD 180 million project began on May 21, 2024, and is scheduled for completion by January 21, 2027.

Moreover, the 1,625-kanal site was handed over to the contractor in July 2024, following completion of soil investigations, system studies, and design work. Procurement of major equipment, along with construction of boundary walls and buildings, is currently underway. NTDC confirmed that overall physical progress stands at 18% and financial progress at 16.8%, with no major delays reported.

Credit: INP-WealthPk