The Dasu Hydropower Project (DHPP) marked a key construction milestone last week with the successful breakthrough of the Uchar B tunnels, completing all seven tunnels under the Karakoram Highway (KKH-01) relocation package, Gwadar Pro reported on Tuesday.

The Uchar B tunnel extends 953 meters and its breakthroughs was confirmed during an on-site ceremony attended by engineers, technical staff and project representatives, who gathered at the tunnel portal holding a banner commemorating the excavation breakthrough.

Besides it, Uchar A tunnel measures 673 meters has also being completed, Gwadar Pro added. Located in the mountainous Upper Kohistan district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, the tunnels form part of essential relocation works for sections of KKH that will be affected by the reservoir created under the Dasu HPP.

The tunnels are designed to ensure continued connectivity and safe transportation in the region once the project becomes operational. Photos from the site show engineers and workers wearing protective helmets and safety gear standing at the entrance of the newly excavated tunnel, surrounded by rocky terrain and reinforced slopes.

The tunnel portal is lined with concrete support structures, highlighting the engineering measures taken to ensure stability and safety in complex geological conditions. China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC) is responsible for executing the construction works in coordination with Pakistan’s Water and Power Development Authority (WAPDA).

Moreover, on Friday WAPDA through Dasu HPP released about Rs200 million to accelerate electrification efforts in Kohistan Upper. The funds have been provided to the Hazara Electric Supply Company (HAZECO), formerly known as the Peshawar Electric Supply Company (PESCO), for the electrification of four tehsils of Dasu.

As per WAPDA, the electrification project includes the extension of transmission lines, installation of transformers, and development of distribution networks aimed at delivering electricity to remote and underserved communities in the region. The transmission network is nearing completion.

Electrification will commence soon after HAZECO completes the distribution infrastructure. The initiative is expected to significantly enhance living standards, promote economic activity, and improve access to essential services across Upper Kohistan.

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