AJK water usage charges enhanced to Rs1.10/kwh: Vawda

F.P. Report

ISLAMABAD: Minister for Water Resources Muhammad Faisal Vawda Wednesday said federal government has given approval for paying Rs1.10 per kilowatt hour (kwh) water usage charges to Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) government under the Neelum-Jhelum Hydro Electric Project (NJHEP).

Talking to media, he said resultantly the share of AJK in net hydel profit would be enhanced to Rs11 billion from Rs700 million per annum, supplementing the financial position of AJK government and creating space for the government to spend more on social sector development for the uplift of underdeveloped areas of Azad Kashmir.

He said the decision has been taken by setting aside political expediencies with an aim to bring AJK at par with other federating units and strengthen its financial position.

He said the NJHEP has started 103 percent production capacity thus project has started fetching Rs 50 billion per annum.

He said the inauguration ceremony of Mohmand dam would be held soon, however, the construction work on the dam has already been started.

Lauding efforts of former chief justice, he said Saqib Nisar would also be invited in the inauguration ceremony.

He said he was enjoying good working relations with Sindh government.