Rs 420000000000: How China's mega investment turned Neelum-Jhelum project into major crisis in PoK due to…
The Neelum-Jhelum Hydropower Project in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir has become a symbol of growing public anger, with locals alleging power shortages, poor services, and misuse of natural resources.
Residents in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) have been protesting over long power cuts, poor public services, and the handling of the Neelum-Jhelum Hydropower Project. Critics claim the project has failed to improve the lives of local people despite massive investment. Neelum-Jhelum Hydropower Project at the Centre of DiscontentThe 969 MW Neelum-Jhelum Hydropower Project was launched with promises of development and electricity generation. Authorities said the project would produce nearly 1,000 MW of electricity for Pakistan’s national grid by using the rivers flowing through PoK. However, many local residents say they have seen little benefit from the project and continue to face electricity shortages. Locals Say They Do Not Benefit from Their Own ResourcesThe rivers in PoK are among the region’s biggest natural resources. While electricity generated from these rivers is supplied to Pakistan’s national grid, many local communities say they continue to experience frequent power cuts. Residents also claim they pay some of the highest electricity charges despite receiving an unreliable power supply. Many areas continue to face long hours without electricity. Protests Continue for More Than Two YearsAccording to local reports, people have been protesting under the banner of the Joint Awami Action Committee for over two years. Protesters are demanding:Reliable electricity supplyLower electricity tariffsBetter internet and mobile connectivityImproved basic public servicesThe United Kashmir People’s National Party (UKPNP) has also criticised frequent load shedding, low voltage, and poor communication services in the region. China’s Financial Support for the ProjectThe Neelum-Jhelum project faced financial difficulties because it is located in a disputed region. Several international financial institutions reportedly did not provide funding. China later stepped in with financial assistance. Pakistan secured a $448 million loan from the Export-Import Bank of China to help complete the project. The project was also seen as strategically important for Pakistan because it strengthened its control over the use of water from the Neelum River. Technical Problems and Corruption AllegationsDespite billions of rupees being spent and years of construction, the project reportedly faced major technical problems soon after it became operational. Local traders and residents in Muzaffarabad have demanded a transparent investigation into the project’s financial and technical issues. Protesters allege that while the region’s natural resources are being used, local communities continue to struggle with poor infrastructure, long power cuts, and limited public services. The Neelum-Jhelum Hydropower Project has now become a major issue in PoK, with many residents questioning whether the project has delivered the development that was originally promised. First published on:Aug 06, 2026 06:35 PM ISTGet Breaking News First and Latest Updates from India and around the world on News24. Follow News24 onFacebook,Twitter. End of ArticleRelated Story