Balochistan to solarise 252 tube wells

Balochistan Chief Minister Jam Kamal said in the first phase of a mega project to convert tube wells to solar power, the government would solarise 252 existing water supply schemes in various parts of the province to provide uninterrupted power supply to residents and overcome line losses.

“The project has been initiated 1.5 years ago and currently it is providing services as the government and community tube wells are in process of conversion from diesel and electricity to solar power,” said the chief minister, while inaugurating a scheme in Shakerzai Syedan.

According to estimates, the cost of the scheme would be around Rs7.6 million.

Similarly, water schemes in Chagai, Jaffarabad, Kharan, Lasbella, Loralai, Naseerabad, Pashin, Quetta, Sibi, Suhbat Pur, Zhob and Ziarat were also being solarised.

Most of the schemes in said parts of the province were near completion.

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During the course of the inauguration ceremony, the authorities concerned told the CM that around 598,540 people would benefit from the project.

Addressing the event, Kamal said the project's objective was not just to supply water but to also bring prosperity to the area.

“The Balochistan government is also providing solar geysers to cold areas where wood or gas is currently being used for heating,” said the chief minister.

 

Published in The Express Tribune, March 22^nd, 2021.