In a notable development, the Thar coal mines in the vast Thar desert now provide Pakistan’s National Grid with a considerable supply of reasonably priced electricity totalling 2640MW. These coal mining and power plant facilities represent a significant step towards supplying Pakistan’s energy demands. It was made feasible by the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).

A significant step in this project has been reached by constructing the 220-kilometre transmission line. It connects the Thar Coal Mine and the Mityari converter station.

The transmission line’s completion creates new transportation options for electricity produced from Block 1 of the Thar coal mine, strengthening Pakistan’s National Grid’s integration of coal-fired power output.

The National Transmission and Dispatch Company (NTDC) was praised by Engr Khurram Dastgir Khan, the Federal Minister for Energy (Power Division), for completing the building of this transmission line in a respectable amount of time. The project, with a projected cost of around Rs 15 billion, was finished on schedule thanks to relentless efforts.

This project is significant for Pakistan’s future energy needs. Because it supports the National Grid and makes affordable electricity more readily available. During the summer, the Thar coal plants are capable of operating at full capacity. It will offer an extra 800-1000MW of inexpensive power, significantly lowering the need for imports and resolving load-shedding difficulties.

Project’s Benefits

The project also offers a 9 billion unit annual production capacity covering needs of about 4 million nearby families. In addition to improving energy security, this project has several positive economic effects. It increases Pakistan’s energy security while preserving foreign exchange reserves by lowering fuel imports.

In conclusion, completing coal mining and power plant facilities in the Thar desert represents an essential milestone for Pakistan. These measures, made feasible by the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), have effectively supplied the National Grid with 2640MW.

A critical phase in the transfer of energy from Block 1 of the Thar coal mine was reached by constructing a 220-kilometre transmission line linking the Thar Coal Mine and the Mityari converter plant. This initiative will also have economic advantages. It will improve energy security, which is essential for fulfilling Pakistan’s future energy needs and integrating coal-fired power generation into the National Grid.