By Rahmat Ullah Swati

TIMERGARA, Jan 7 — The Koto Hydel Power Project, activated recently on a trial basis, has temporarily shut down one of its turbine generation units after technical issues were detected, officials confirmed. Engineers reported that a panel box had settled by nearly two inches and minor leakages required immediate repair. Heavy machinery has been deployed, and one unit is expected to be reactivated by January 15.

Project engineers Adnan Khan and Abbas Khan, along with Supervisor Mushtaq Hussain and Construction Manager Zulqarnain, briefed the media on the situation. They emphasized that the project is being executed according to design specifications under consultant supervision, rejecting claims of substandard materials.

The Koto Hydel Power Project is designed to generate 40.2 megawatts of electricity with a budget of Rs. 1.5 billion. Officials explained that due to seasonal water scarcity, only one of the three turbines was operated during the trial phase, producing between 8 and 10 MW. They added that once water levels in the Panjkora River rise in March and April, all three turbines will be operational, delivering the full 40 MW capacity.

Engineers clarified that winter closures are routine for hydropower projects, allowing for maintenance and cleaning. They assured that the minor leakages are being repaired with high-quality materials and will be resolved shortly.

The contractor has not yet formally handed over the project to the department. Once the handover is complete, the company will transfer full responsibility to the relevant authorities.

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