With a generation capacity of 720 megawatts, the Karot Hydropower Project is among the early harvest projects under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).

One of its most notable features is its “run-of-the-river” design, which utilizes the natural flow of the river to generate electricity without the need for large reservoirs. This approach significantly reduces environmental impact and limits the displacement of local communities, making it a sustainable and environmentally responsible energy solution.

The Karot Hydropower Project, constructed on the Jhelum River, has emerged as a shining example of economic and technical cooperation between Pakistan and China. This landmark initiative is not only playing a vital role in addressing Pakistan’s long-standing energy crisis but has also established itself as a significant milestone in the fields of modern engineering, strategic planning and international partnership. In particular, the successful completion of its diversion tunnels marked a decisive phase that set the project firmly on the path toward operational success.

Constructing diversion tunnels is widely regarded as one of the most complex and high-risk phases of any hydropower project and Karot was no exception. The region’s geological conditions presented serious challenges, including hard rock formations, fault lines and unstable ground layers. Tunnel excavation in such an environment required advanced machinery, technical expertise and continuous monitoring.........

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