The Mansehra 765kV Substation Project has reached a major construction milestone after PowerChina completed the positioning of all seven main transformers at the project site in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
The final transformer was positioned on November 5, completing the placement of all seven units. The first transformer was positioned on April 17, while the project has now entered the equipment installation phase, according to Gwadar Pro.
Each transformer weighs approximately 225 tonnes. Their shipments began in November 2025, and all seven units reached the project site over a period of 344 days. Transporting the heavy equipment required extensive logistical planning and coordination.
Chinese and Pakistani Teams Coordinate Transformer Positioning
The project team conducted technical sessions with supervision engineers and reviewed relevant documentation and testing plans to ensure the safe positioning of the transformers.
Chinese specialists provided technical guidance remotely, while Pakistani employees carried out the operations at the site in real time. This coordination supported the handling and positioning of the heavy equipment.
The completion of this phase clears the way for further equipment installation and other construction activities required to advance the substation towards completion.
Mansehra Substation to Support Dasu Hydropower Transmission
Once operational, the Mansehra substation will serve as a key transmission point for electricity generated by the Dasu Hydropower Project.
The facility forms part of a broader 765kV transmission network designed to carry hydropower from Dasu towards Islamabad. The World Bank-supported transmission project includes a double-circuit 765kV line and a substation at Mansehra to evacuate electricity from the hydropower plant.
The first phase of the Dasu Hydropower Project is designed to generate 2,160 megawatts of electricity. The transmission infrastructure will help deliver this power to the national grid and connect hydropower resources with major electricity consumption centres.
The Mansehra facility is Pakistan’s first grid station operating at the 765/220kV voltage level. Its development represents an important step in expanding the country’s high-capacity electricity transmission infrastructure.
Transmission Line Challenges Remain
Although transformer positioning marks progress at the substation, the wider Dasu-Mansehra transmission project continues to face implementation challenges.
A report published by Business Recorder on November 12 said contractor Sinohydro had raised concerns over outstanding payments, design disputes and delays in land acquisition and regulatory clearances affecting construction of the transmission line.
These issues highlight the importance of coordinating progress at the substation with the completion of the connecting transmission infrastructure.
Strengthening Pakistan’s Electricity Network
The completion of transformer positioning marks a significant step forward for the Mansehra 765kV Substation Project. Once the facility and its associated transmission infrastructure become operational, they are expected to improve the movement of hydropower to the national grid.
The project will also support the integration of domestic renewable energy resources, strengthen grid stability and expand Pakistan’s capacity to transmit electricity from major hydropower projects.
The latest milestone reflects continued cooperation between Pakistani and Chinese teams in developing the country’s high-voltage power transmission infrastructure.
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