The Bishkek–Osh tunnel project was supplemented with two small hydroelectric power plants
The Cabinet of Ministers of Kyrgyzstan has decided to expand the project for the construction of an alternative tunnel on the strategic Bishkek–Osh highway, adding an energy development component to it. The relevant changes were made to the government decree regulating the implementation of this large infrastructure facility.
According to the updated document, the project now provides for the construction of two small hydroelectric power plants – Karakol West and Sokuluk South. The main task of the new HPPs will be the uninterrupted supply of electricity for the construction of the tunnel. In the future, these facilities will be integrated into the national energy system, which will contribute to the development of renewable energy sources in the republic.
The implementation of the energy part of the project is entrusted to the state institution “Green Energy Fund under the Cabinet of Ministers”. This structure is authorized to carry out all necessary work in accordance with the current legislation of the Kyrgyz Republic. The integration of energy facilities into the transport infrastructure project is a comprehensive approach to the development of mountainous areas.
The Bishkek–Osh highway is a key transport artery connecting the northern and southern regions of Kyrgyzstan. The construction of a new, alternative tunnel is designed to increase throughput and traffic safety on one of the most difficult high-altitude sections of the route, which is often closed in winter due to weather conditions.
Original (in Russian): Проект тоннеля Бишкек–Ош дополнили двумя малыми гидроэлектростанциями
