His Excellency Emomali Rahmon, Founder of Peace and National Unity, Leader of the Nation, President of the Republic of Tajikistan, on October 12 officiated the commencement of the construction of 110kV Qozideh substation in Ishkashim District and the 42 km 110 kV transmission network in Rushan District. Mr. Raimundas Karoblis, EU Ambassador to the Republic of Tajikistan, and Mr. Qozidavlat Qoimdodov, Resident Representative of the Aga Khan Development Network in Tajikistan were also present in the commencement event.

This crucial infrastructure will be developed through the partnership of the European Union, the Aga Khan Foundation, and Pamir Energy Company as part of the Badakhshan Electrification Project. In line with Tajikistan’s national strategy to increase electricity exports, the project substantially enhances the regional grid of VMKB, boosting its power export capacity to cross-border areas of Afghanistan.

Over the past two decades, Pamir Energy, with the support of the Government of Tajikistan and development partners, has invested significantly in modern, sustainable infrastructure to ensure reliable energy transmission across the region. Currently, only the last 42.5 km in Rushan district remains at 35 kV, between Vanj district and Khorog. The new 110 kV double-circuit overhead transmission line, supported by steel lattice towers, will facilitate the efficient transmission of clean energy from and to the national grid and promote energy exports to border regions in Afghanistan.

Furthermore, the new 110 kV substation in the Qozideh village of Ishkashim District will energize the recently commissioned 63km Khorog-Qozideh transmission network at 110 kV capacity, thereby improving the quality and reliability of power supplied to residents of Ishkashim District and cross-border areas of Afghanistan.

“Today, we are marking a historic milestone in establishing a more resilient and robust electricity network in the Viloyati Mukhtori Kuhistoni Badakhshon region (Gorno Badakhshan Autonomous Region, or GBAO),” stated Daler Juma, Minister of Energy and Water Resources. “The infrastructure we are initiating today will have a profound and lasting impact on the energy security and economic development of the region. This advancement not only ensures reliable electricity access for our communities but also fosters opportunities for investment, growth, and improved quality of life for all residents in this beautiful area of Tajikistan.”

In GBAO, the European Union is also co-financing the construction of the Sebzor Hydropower Plant and fully financing the 110 kV substation in Rushan District, both of which are scheduled for completion in 2025. Additionally, the EU is supporting the feasibility study for the 14 MW Charsem Hydropower Plant on the Gund River, located upstream of the 28 MW Pamir I Hydropower Plant. This project represents a significant step toward long-term energy security for VMKB, as it will enable the connection of Murgab District to the regional grid, further enhancing clean power generation in the area.

“I am truly excited about the collaborative efforts that have brought us to this significant juncture,” remarked Mr. Raimundas Karoblis, EU Ambassador to the Republic of Tajikistan. “These projects embody our shared commitment not just to improving energy access but also to promoting sustainable development in this vital region. By investing in reliable infrastructure, we are empowering communities, fostering economic resilience, and paving the way for future opportunities for the people of Tajikistan. Together, we are building a brighter, more secure energy future that benefits not only Tajikistan but the entire region.”

“Today’s inauguration represents a significant step forward in our ongoing efforts to improve the quality of life for the people of Tajikistan,” said Mr. Qozidavlat Qoimdodov, Resident Representative of the Aga Khan Development Network in Tajikistan. “We believe that this unique project is crucial for sustainable development, and this infrastructure will play a pivotal role in enhancing the quality of life throughout the region.”

For further information, please contact: Ramizya Muborakshoeva, Deputy General Director at [email protected]