i NEWS PAK-CHINA

POWERCHINA emerges as driving force in the development of CPECBreaking

September 05, 2023

Senior official at POWERCHINA has said that since their debut in Pakistan back in 1987, Power China has been a pivotal driving force in the development of the China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). In a briefing organized by All Pakistan Chinese Enterprises’ Association (APCEA), the official said that their investments in regional infrastructure growth, particularly in the domain of power plants, have been instrumental in transforming the landscape of Pakistan’s energy sector. With an impressive portfolio of 47 successfully executed projects in Pakistan, with a cumulative contract value exceeding 6.2 billion US dollars. Currently, there are 41 ongoing projects, including subcontracts, with a contract value exceeding 6 billion US dollars, said official. Our workforce comprises approximately 1,500 skilled Chinese personnel, working hand in hand with more than 11,000 talented local Pakistani professionals.

He said that as the leading enterprise of the APCEA, they stand at the forefront of groundbreaking endeavors. We have invested in and constructed the Dawood Wind Power Project in Pakistan, as well as the largest super-critical coal-fired power plant, the Port Qasim Coal-fired Power Plant. We have successfully completed the Tarbela Hydropower Project, which is the largest hydroelectric power station in terms of installed capacity in Pakistan. Our ongoing projects include the construction of the world’s tallest and largest roller-compacted concrete dam, the Basha Dam project, as well as the 765KV Dasu Transmission Line Project, which represents the highest voltage level in Pakistan’s power infrastructure, said official. Recent years have seen us seamlessly assimilating into the local fabric, disseminating cutting-edge power technologies, nurturing local talents, and fostering cross-cultural integration. The results of these endeavors are palpable and laudable.

In upholding our corporate social responsibilities, POWERCHINA places a strong emphasis on cultivating and employing local management and technical talents. In two separate batches, over 100 local employees have been privileged to undergo training and further education in China, enhancing their skills and qualities, told official. Official also added that our commitment extends beyond business, as we’ve consistently extended support to the “Al-Mustafa” orphanage through focused donations and volunteer services. Committed to environmental protection, China National Electric Engineering Co., Ltd. has actively contributed to flood-stricken communities around the Basha project and has been instrumental in extinguishing wildfires near the Tarbela Hydropower Station. Our commitment to transparency and community involvement is exemplified by the numerous project open day initiatives we’ve organized.

Notable dignitaries, including Prime Ministers, governmental officials, and representatives from WAPDA, have visited the construction site of the Basha Dam for inspection. The Pakistani government has expressed approval for the project’s progress and high standards of implementation. National television, the Associated Press of Pakistan, and major newspapers have shown keen interest, providing immediate coverage. The company’s contributions to economic development, local employment, and fulfillment of social responsibilities has been commended and publicized, receiving praise on official media and various social media platforms within the framework of the CPEC. We actively engage in the Pakistan “China Bookshelf” project, we’ve enriched the COMSATS University library with a collection of 504 books, 17 of which are dedicated to President Xi Jinping.

The official launch of this initiative received a warm welcome from faculty and students alike, further fostering cultural exchange. In 2016, POWERCHINA organized the Cricket Super League in the Jhampir region showcasing our commitment to engagement beyond business. The league consisted of nine teams composed of project owners, Chinese and Pakistani employees of the company, spanning 8 days and featuring a total of 19 matches. Ultimately, the Master team from CNEEC East China Institute emerged as the champions of the event by defeating Gul Ahmed in the final match with an undefeated record. Our progress in renewable energy is underscored by the four operational wind power projects, including the SAPPHIRE Wind Power Project, have entered the operational phase.

The MASTER and TAPAL projects are in the final stages of electrical equipment installation and testing before reverse power transmission, while the SACHAL project has reached the peak period of civil construction. As the pinnacle company of the All-Pakistan China Enterprises Association, POWERCHINA’s approach is marked by unity and synergy. We have pursued collaborative mechanisms among embassy, central media, and state-owned enterprises, paving the way for harmonious cross-cultural integration. The narrative has shifted from a solo performance to a harmonious ensemble, enriching our journey together, said official.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP) — Pak-China