SK Hydro Private Limited has launched its eighth annual afforestation campaign along the Kunhar River, reinforcing environmental sustainability alongside clean energy development in Pakistan.
The large-scale tree plantation initiative forms part of the broader ecological vision associated with Chinese investment in Pakistan’s hydropower sector, demonstrating how China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) projects are integrating green development principles with infrastructure and energy cooperation.
Organized under the theme “Beautify the Kunhar River Bank, Build a Green Power Station Together,” the campaign was conducted on Thursday afternoon in collaboration with local government authorities, the forestry department, environmental protection agencies, and the project’s operation and maintenance contractor. Participants planted thousands of saplings across nearby hillsides to strengthen ecological protection around the hydropower facility.
According to officials, more than 160,000 trees have been planted since the initiative began, significantly improving the ecological environment surrounding the Suki Kinari Hydropower Project, a flagship clean-energy venture supported by Chinese investment under CPEC.
The plantation drive aims to combat soil erosion, stabilize slopes near the project area, and enhance biodiversity along the Kunhar River basin. Environmental experts noted that sustained afforestation efforts over the years have not only protected the project’s infrastructure but also revitalized the natural landscape, reflecting a long-term commitment to sustainable development.
The Suki Kinari project stands as the largest greenfield hydropower investment undertaken overseas by a Chinese enterprise and the biggest hydropower venture developed abroad by China Energy Engineering Corporation. The power station formally commenced commercial operations on September 14, 2024, marking a major milestone in Pakistan-China energy cooperation.
Since becoming operational, the project has generated more than 3.1 billion kilowatt-hours of clean electricity, contributing significantly to Pakistan’s transition toward renewable energy and helping optimize the country’s energy mix.
