Sindh's top energy official has conducted a detailed inspection of a major infrastructure project crucial for the country's power supply. The visit underscores the government's focus on utilizing domestic coal resources to achieve energy independence.
High-Level Site Inspection at Chore
Sindh Energy Secretary Shahab Qamar Ansari led a significant site visit to Chore near Umerkot to assess the ongoing work on the Thar coal railway line. He was accompanied by Commissioner Mirpurkhas Faisal Uqali and other senior officials from the Energy Department. The team undertook a comprehensive review of the project's progress on the ground.
The officials meticulously inspected the construction of the 105-kilometre railway line. This vital link is designed to connect the rich Thar coalfields directly to Bin Qasim. The initiative is a strategic move to strengthen Pakistan's energy framework by ensuring a reliable and efficient transport route for indigenous coal.
Project Scope and Strategic Importance
The ambitious project encompasses more than just the main line. It also includes a nine-kilometre railway extension from Bin Qasim to Port Qasim. Furthermore, plans are in place to develop a dedicated coal unloading facility at the port itself. This integrated approach is meant to create a seamless logistics chain from mine to port.
Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah has highlighted the project's national significance. He emphasized that the railway will integrate the Thar coal mines with the national railway network and Port Qasim. This integration is expected to enable seamless and cost-effective coal transportation, reducing reliance on imported fuel and lowering power generation costs.
Financial Commitment and Future Impact
The massive infrastructure undertaking carries an estimated price tag of approximately Rs 90 billion. The funding for this project is being shared between the Sindh government and its development partners. This collaborative investment underscores the project's priority status for regional and national development.
The successful completion of the Thar coal railway is poised to be a game-changer for Pakistan's energy sector. By providing a dedicated and efficient corridor for Thar coal, it will directly contribute to enhancing the country's energy security. The project promises to unlock the full potential of Thar's vast coal reserves, paving the way for more affordable and sustainable power for industries and households across Pakistan.
