Islamabad: Once again, a technical glitch has occurred in the Neelum Jhelum Tunnel causing a halt in power generation. The 48-kilometer-long headrace tunnel of the Neelum Jhelum Hydro Project has been closed.
Just a month ago, a decrease in pressure was observed in the headrace tunnel prompting consultants and international experts to device a comprehensive plan for restoration.
On April 2, an abrupt decrease in pressure was observed in the headrace tunnel which was being operated at 530 megawatts. Around 11 pm on April 29 further changes were observed in the pressure and although power generation from the plant was gradually reduced, the pressure could not be maintained within safety limits. Consequently, the plant was shut down at 6 am yesterday for inspection of the headrace tunnel.
Detailed discussions were held with consultants regarding the discharge of water from the headrace tunnel. After closing the intake gates, the process of water discharge from the headrace tunnel has commenced and it will be done intermittently to ensure the safety of the tunnel.
It is worth noting that the plant was also shut down for maintenance of the tailrace tunnel in 2022. After the completion of maintenance, electricity generation from the plant resumed in August 2023.
