The Azad Pattan Hydropower Project is a planned 700.7 MW run-of-river hydroelectric plant on the Jhelum River in Azad Jammu & Kashmir (AJK), Pakistan. As a key component of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), the project aims to provide clean energy, stimulate the local economy, and create employment opportunities.
Key Features
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Capacity: 700.7 MW
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Type: Run-of-river with a Roller Compacted Concrete (RCC) dam and underground powerhouse
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Location: Near Muslimabad, Sudhanoti District, ~90 km from Islamabad
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Developers: Azad Pattan Power Private Limited (APPL), a joint venture between China Gezhouba Group (80%) and Laraib Group (20%)
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Model: Build-Own-Operate-Transfer (BOOT) for 30 years, transferring to AJK government afterward
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Framework: Part of the broader CPEC initiative
Benefits
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Clean Energy: Expected annual generation of 3.265 billion kWh of renewable electricity
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Economic Growth: Creates jobs, attracts investment, and generates revenue for local and federal governments
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Lowest Tariff: Hydropower tariff approved among the lowest in Pakistan
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Cascade Development: Part of the Jhelum River cascade including Kohala, Mahl, Azad Pattan, and Karot projects for efficient river utilization
Project Timeline
The Azad Pattan Hydropower Project is anticipated to be completed by 2026, contributing significantly to Pakistan’s energy mix while supporting sustainable regional development.
This hydroelectric project exemplifies how CPEC initiatives are promoting infrastructure, clean energy, and economic growth across Pakistan.
