The Union Minister of Power and Housing & Urban Affairs, Shri Manohar Lal, on the second day of his visit to Bhutan, visited to the Punatsangchhu-I and Punatsangchhu-II Hydropower Project sites.

At the Punatsangchhu-I project site, the Union Minister attended the ceremony for pour of concrete of the dam, marking a significant milestone in the development of the project. The project, the largest joint hydropower venture between the two countries, is expected to enhance Bhutan’s hydropower capacity substantially upon completion.

During the visit, Shri Manohar Lal emphasized the long-standing partnership in the energy sector, noted India’s continued support including financial assistance and technical collaboration, and commended the coordinated efforts of engineers and experts from both sides in advancing the project safely and efficiently. He also inspected the powerhouse and was briefed on the status of implementation and key milestones achieved.

Shri Manohar Lal then visited the Punatsangchhu-II project, which was jointly inaugurated on 11 November 2025 by Shri Narendra Modi, the Prime Minister of India, and His Majesty Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck, has since emerged as a significant contributor to Bhutan’s energy sector.

The Union Minister reviewed the operational performance of the project, noting that it has already generated substantial electricity and revenue while enabling exports of clean power to India. He appreciated the successful execution and operational efficiency of the project, acknowledged its contribution to Bhutan’s economic growth, and reaffirmed India’s continued commitment to supporting Bhutan in sustainable energy development. The visit included inspection of the powerhouse and dam site, where he was apprised of ongoing operations.

Shri Manohar Lal also visited the Wangdue Phodrang Dzong, which is a repository of Bhutan’s rich historical and cultural heritage.

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NR/AP

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