BEIJING, Jan 31: China is prepared to take part in construction of 96-megawatt Jinnah Hydropower project in Pakistan this year, said Pan Jishen, Vice President of Dongfang Electric Corporation (DEC).

In an interview with APP, he said the project worth $128 million would be completed in four years.

DEC’s total investment in Pakistan had reached around $1.9 billion in about 14 projects, Mr Jishen said, adding: “We consider Pakistan our closest and most sincere friend and wish to continue active participation in its socio-economic development.”

The company has also shown willingness to undertake civil work at Keyal Khwar Hydropower Project in the NWFP that will cost over $36 million.

The company’s share in the Jinnah Hyrdo Power project comprises designing and civil, electrical and mechanical work.

The project will be constructed on the right side of existing Jinnah Barrage on the Indus river, five kilometres downstream of Kalabagh in Mianwali district. The low head hydro-power project will utilize a gross head of 4.88 Sq-meters to move 8 power units and generate 96 megawatt.

According initial plan, the cost of electricity to be produced by this project was estimated at 3.30 cents per unit. As per the contract, its construction is required to be completed in 48 months from the date of commencement of work.

The DEC is already making heavy investment in modernization of Pakistan Railways by providing locomotives and fright wagons. Other important projects in which it has made heavy investment include Guddu Thermal Power station and Ghazi Brotha Dam.

Established in 1984, DEC is one of the largest enterprises in China engaged in the manufacturing of power generating equipment and construction of power projects. It is also one of the substantial state-owned enterprises relating to national security and economic vital. It is implementing development projects in about 30 countries.

Mr Jishen said Pakistan was a major centre for economic collaboration. Terming Pakistan as his second home, he said he had visited the country almost 52 times to push forward their mutually beneficial cooperative partnership.—APP