Great news for India and Bhutan in terms of friendly relations and energy cooperation. The construction works of the large-scale 1,200 MW hydropower plant Punatsangchhu-1, located in Bhutan, have been resumed after a break of seven years. During the official visit to Bhutan by India's Energy Minister, Manohar Lal Khattar, on April 10, he participated in the concrete pouring ceremony, which is regarded as the starting point of building the dam.

The construction was suspended in 2019 due to geological concerns. However, after solving all the existing technical concerns related to the landscape and mountainous regions and making sure that the place is safe to build a hydropower station, the construction works were finally resumed.

This project is the largest joint hydropower venture between India and Bhutan to date, fully funded by India. Speaking at the ceremony, Energy Minister Manohar Lal Khattar said that this project is a shining example of the strong and deep energy ties between India and Bhutan. He commended India's financial and technical support and the joint efforts of both countries to ensure safe construction.

Under the new strategy for safe construction, the massive dam is expected to be fully completed within the next five years. With a 1,200 megawatt power generation capacity, this project will significantly increase Bhutan's hydropower capacity upon completion. This will not only boost Bhutan's economy but also play a key role in the development of clean energy in South Asia.