The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government has decided to build a new electricity transmission line in Swat to bring low-cost hydropower from the province’s own projects into the grid. The move aims to reduce reliance on expensive electricity, save money, and strengthen power supply in the region. Construction of the project is likely to begin soon.
According to officials, the Peshawar Electric Supply Company (PESCO) and the Pakhtunkhwa Energy Development Organization (PEDO) have signed an agreement to construct a 22-kilometre transmission line in Swat district. The line will be used to transmit electricity generated from hydropower projects developed by the provincial government.
A high-level meeting regarding the project was held, chaired by Secretary Energy and Power Nisar Ahmed. Senior officials from PEDO and PESCO, including Chief Executive PEDO Engineer Anwar ul Haq and Director General PESCO Atif Jawad, were present at the meeting.
During the briefing, officials shared updates on ongoing hydropower projects in the Swat corridor being developed by PEDO, which operates under the Energy Department. The meeting was also informed about an existing 40-kilometre transmission line project linking Matiltan in Usho Valley to Bahrain in Swat and its project specifications.
Officials said the new transmission line from Madin Grid Station to Khwaza Khela Grid Station would ensure smooth and efficient power transmission once the upcoming hydropower projects are completed over the next two to five years. Various technical proposals were reviewed to make sure the project meets future energy needs.
Secretary Energy and Power Nisar Ahmed described province-owned transmission lines as a “game changer” for Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s energy sector. He said having its own transmission network would not only support upcoming power projects but also strengthen the provincial economy in the long run.