Work on power dam launched in Kunar

ASADABAD (PAN): Construction work has been launched on the Managi power dam in eastern Kunar province, said Governor Shujaul Mulk Jalala.

The dam is being built on the Dara Pech River in the Managi locality of Watapur district. Lawmakers, local officials and elders attended the inauguration ceremony for the project.

Jalala told Pajhwok Afghan News after ceremony on Thursday building the dam was a long-standing demand of the people. The demand has been met with the launch of construction work.

All out cooperation from locals would help the government in the early completion of the dam, he noted. “No big project with the exception of this dam could be initiated during the past decade.

“We are optimistic the project will benefit everyone including those living in mountainous and remote areas,” Jalala added.

He urged militants to support the project, just like they had extended cooperation to the education sector.

Project head Eng. Mohammad Sadiq said the dam would cost $9. 85 million provided by the government. The project will take four years to complete.

The dam is estimated to produce 2,100 megawatts of electricity, benefitting 2,500 families, he said. The reservoir will help irrigate thousands of acres land and provide job opportunities to hundreds.

Senator from Kunar Rafiullah Haidari said locals and government officials should cooperate with staff working on the water reservoir.

The 201^st Military Corps commander, Col. Hayatullah Aqtash, assured his forces would work day and night to ensure security of the project.

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