Pakistan

Suki-Kinari Hydropower; portrayal of joint Belt and Road construction

Published

3 years ago

June 7, 2021

Editor

BEIJING, June 7 (APP): Suki-Kinari Hydropower project is an accurate portrayal of the joint Belt and Road construction and also the best witness of the historical friendship between China and Pakistan.

In an interview with CEN, Deputy General Manager of SK Hydro, Danish Haseeb Khan said, “I have witnessed the joint efforts of the Chinese and Pakistani employees in Suki Kinari Hydro Private Limited (SK Hydro). Relevant government departments of the two sides have forged ahead with strong cooperation,”.

This spring, along the Kaghan river of Mansehra district in Pakistan, Suki Kinari hydropower construction site was a hive of activity. A variety of large construction machinery and equipment were operating orderly, a deafening rattle came from those machines, and the construction teams were busy in their respective posts.

Suki Kinari hydropower project achieved financial close on December 31, 2016. As one of the biggest private-sector hydropower developments in Pakistan and one of the highest priority early harvest projects within the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), it is of great significance and is expected to be put into operation
in 2022.

Suki Kinari Hydro Private Limited (SK Hydro), in which China Gezhouba Group holds a majority stake of 98 percent, is developing the project with an estimated investment of US $ 1.96 bln.

Danish has a deep connection with the SK project. When he joined the project in 2005, Mott MacDonald Ltd was conducting a bankable feasibility study on the project.

Danish was then a member of the supervisory team and was responsible for submitting the electricity prices at the feasibility study stage and EPC (Engineering, Procurement and Construction) phase to Pakistanâ€™s National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA).

In addition, he led the SK Hydro’s team to negotiate with Pakistani government agencies on franchise agreements (power purchase agreement, water use agreement, and execution agreement), and to discuss and finalize the financing plan with relevant banks (Industrial and Commercial Bank of China and Export-Import Bank of China).

The Chinese and Pakistani teams of SK Hydro have been working together on
this project since 2015. In the process of pushing the financial close, they encountered many difficulties.

SK Hydro organized a children’s painting competition in 2018 among the schools where the hydropower station is located, in which students from grade one to grade five picked up their brushes to depict visions, combine imagination with reality, and explore the unique charm of local culture.

A total of 100 children from 32 schools took part in the event, and 20 children won the prize. In 2019, SK Hydro held an English speech competition in the project construction area. 27 schools participated in the competition and 25 students won the prize.

These activities aimed to encourage local youth to achieve higher goals in life and making positive contributions to the development of Pakistan.

The year 2020 has been a most extraordinary one. In the trying times of the sudden onslaught of COVID-19, the Chinese and Pakistani people reached out to each other.
In Pakistan, the raging pandemic has led to the closure of schools and businesses. To ensure the smooth construction of the project, SK Hydro has worked hard to overcome numerous difficulties including communication and traffic control.

“In March 2020, we distributed food, masks, protective clothing, etc. to needy families in the areas where the hydropower stations are located to help them overcome difficulties. In November 2020, we carried out an activity themed ‘Caring for the Flower of Chin-Pakistan Friendship’, providing over 100 students from 10 schools stationery and warm clothes,” Danish said.

“In early March of this year, we planted 1,500 saplings at the hydropower station to maintain the ecological environment on the Kaghan river. During the pandemic, we provided nearly 5,000 jobs for local residents in Pakistan. We are proud that our efforts have been highly praised by local authorities and residents,” Danish added.

Pakistan

“Through Iqbal’s Words, We Find the Spirit to Soar as One Nation”

Published

1 week ago

November 9, 2024

EDITOR

a poet, philosopher, and politician but also a visionary who planted the seeds of unity, self-respect, and resilience in the hearts of Muslims in the Indian subcontinent. Iqbal’s words were the catalysts that motivated people to recognize their potential, unite under a shared purpose, and ultimately pave the way for an independent Pakistan. His poetry and philosophy still resonate, reminding us of the values we hold dear and the power of unity, faith, and discipline in overcoming challenges.

Iqbal’s Philosophy: A Call to Selfhood and Unity

Iqbal was deeply influenced by the concept of “Khudi,” or selfhood, which he introduced as an idea of recognizing and cultivating the inner strength within each individual. He encouraged Muslims to develop their personal and spiritual strength, advocating for a life driven by purpose and unwavering resolve. For Iqbal, the idea of “Khudi” was not merely about individual development but about understanding that one’s personal strength contributes to the strength of the entire nation.

He also emphasized unity, which he saw as an essential component for the progress and survival of any community. Iqbal believed that unity was the bedrock upon which a nation could stand strong, and he used his poetry to inspire a collective identity that transcended individual differences. His call to unity was not just for the Muslims of India but for all who valued justice, peace, and a meaningful life.

The Message of Faith and Discipline

Iqbal’s poetry speaks powerfully about faith—faith in God, in oneself, and in the potential of a unified community. His famous verse, Sitaron se aage jahan aur bhi hain, abhi ishq ke imtihan aur bhi hain (There are worlds beyond the stars, and many more tests of love to come), exemplifies his belief that faith could elevate one’s spirit to new heights. Iqbal saw faith as an energizing force that could help people transcend their limitations, reach their aspirations, and maintain hope in the face of adversity.

For Iqbal, discipline was the natural partner of faith. He believed that true faith must be complemented by discipline to channel energy into productive efforts. In his view, a disciplined nation, united in its principles, would have the resilience to face any challenge, no matter how overwhelming.

Inspiring Pakistan’s Youth: Iqbal’s Enduring Legacy

Iqbal’s influence extends beyond his lifetime, continuing to inspire generations. His poetry and philosophy encourage today’s youth to take pride in their heritage, recognize their potential, and work for a prosperous future. Pakistan’s youth, often regarded as the nation’s greatest asset, can find guidance in Iqbal’s call for unity, faith, and discipline. In a world filled with distractions, his message remains clear: true progress lies in developing oneself and working together for the greater good.

Unity in Diversity: Building a Nation

Iqbal’s vision of Pakistan was one where people, regardless of ethnic or linguistic background, would come together as one. His poetry remains a symbol of this unity, speaking of brotherhood and harmony. He knew that for Pakistan to succeed, its people would have to put aside their differences and focus on a shared goal. This vision is especially relevant today, as a diverse Pakistan works toward the common ideals that Iqbal cherished.

Conclusion: Soaring Together as One Nation

Allama Iqbal’s philosophy of selfhood, unity, faith, and discipline is a timeless message. His words urge us to become better versions of ourselves and to use our strengths to build a stronger, more united Pakistan. By embracing his teachings, we can truly embody the spirit that drives a nation forward. As Pakistan continues to face challenges, Iqbal’s words serve as a reminder that by standing together with a shared vision, Pakistan can not only overcome any adversity but also soar to greater heights.