JK CM approves 450 MW Baglihar-II

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*Time has come to explore the hidden Hydel Power Treasure of the State: Omar

*Redundant and out dated four power projects taken up for renovation involving Rs. 200 crore

“Exploring the hidden hydel power treasure available in J&K State will be one of the top priority of my government”, said Chief Minister, (CM), Omar Abdullah while chairing JKPDC Board of Director Meeting at Civil Secretariat in Srinagar today. He gave approval for starting Baglihar stage –II Project with 450 MW capacity. The earlier phase which was started by Dr. Farooq Abdullah with 450 MW capacity which is already in operation. With the start of the new second stage the Baglihar Project will be able to provide 900 MW of electricity which will play a vital role in strengthening the Power capability of the State and also help in economical development. Today’s decision in one of the main significant decision which has been taken in starting new power project in the State. Omar Abdullah in his capacity as Chairman of the Board approved renovation of redundant and outdate power project which are considered vital power production units of the State. The Board observed that by updating and installing sophisticated system in these power generation plants their life will increase for further pro longed period. The Lower Jehlum Power House which is 30 years is having 105 MW capacity, Chenani Power Project which is 60 years old with 30 MW capacity, Upper Sindh Stage-II which is 24 years old having 105 MW capacity and Ganderbal power plant which is 60 years old with 20 MW capacity are losing their life because of out dated redundant machinery and their age. However, with the decision to pump Rs. 200 crore for upgradation and modernization of these significant plants so that availability of power from these plants is ensured for extend period, the Chief Minister approved the same. The Chief Minister said that he has a desire that JKPDC should enrich itself with such mechanical material so that it is able to work like NHPC and explore the hidden power potential in the state. As per experts more than 20, 000 MW hydel power potential in available in the state which is yet to be explored. He said his government will take all necessary steps to make this corporation self sufficient and able to create its own resources from the power treasure which is available in the state. The board deliberated on different aspects of Baglihar project-II including equity ratio which will be earmarked for the project and the funds which will be pooled from different sources for Baglihar Phase-II. On this occasion Chief Secretary, S.S Kapoor, Economic Advisor to Government, Jalil Ahmed Khan, Principal Secretary, Power, B.R Sharma, Commissioner/ Secretary, Finance, Sudhansu Pandey and other senior officer were present on the occasion.