pk-china-user By Tahir Ali
The Dasu Hydropower Project (DHPP) achieved a major construction milestone last week with the successful breakthrough of the Uchar B tunnel, completing all seven tunnels under the Karakoram Highway (KKH-01) relocation package.
Stretching 953 meters, the Uchar B tunnel’s breakthrough was marked by an on-site ceremony attended by engineers, technical experts and project representatives, who gathered at the tunnel portal to commemorate the achievement. In addition, the 673-meter-long Uchar A tunnel has also been completed.
Situated in the mountainous Upper Kohistan district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, these tunnels are part of critical relocation works for sections of the Karakoram Highway that will be impacted by the reservoir created under the Dasu project. The tunnels are designed to maintain connectivity and ensure safe transportation in the region once the hydropower facility becomes operational.
Images from the site show engineers and workers wearing protective helmets and safety gear at the entrance of the newly excavated tunnel, surrounded by rocky terrain and reinforced slopes. The concrete-lined tunnel portal reflects the extensive engineering measures adopted to guarantee stability and safety under challenging geological conditions.
The construction works are being carried out by China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC) in coordination with Water and Power Development Authority (WAPDA).
Meanwhile, on Friday WAPDA, through Dasu HPP, released approximately Rs200 million to accelerate electrification efforts in Upper Kohistan. The funds were provided to Hazara Electric Supply Company (HAZECO), formerly known as Peshawar Electric Supply Company (PESCO), for electrification in four tehsils of Dasu.
According to WAPDA, the electrification initiative includes the extension of transmission lines, installation of transformers and development of distribution networks to supply electricity to remote and underserved communities. With the transmission network nearing completion, electrification is expected to begin soon after HAZECO finalizes the distribution infrastructure. The initiative is projected to enhance living standards, stimulate economic activity and improve access to essential services across Upper Kohistan.
