Union Minister of Power Manohar Lal Khattar visited the Punatsangchhu-I and Punatsangchhu-II hydropower project sites in Bhutan on Friday, 10 April.
At the Punatsangchhu-I project site, Khattar, who is on a four-day visit to Bhutan, attended the concrete pouring ceremony of the dam, marking a significant milestone in the development of the project.
The project, the largest joint hydropower venture between India and Bhutan, is expected to substantially enhance the Himalayan nation’s hydropower capacity upon completion.
During the visit, the minister emphasised the long-standing partnership between India and Bhutan in the energy sector.
He highlighted India’s continued support through financial assistance and technical collaboration, and commended the coordinated efforts of engineers and experts from both countries in advancing the project safely and efficiently.
He also inspected the powerhouse at the Punatsangchhu-I project and was briefed on the status of implementation and key milestones achieved so far.
The minister later visited the Punatsangchhu-II Hydropower Project, which was jointly inaugurated on 11 November 2025 by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Bhutan’s King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck.
The project has since emerged as a significant contributor to Bhutan’s energy sector.
Reviewing the project’s operational performance, the minister noted that the project 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 and acknowledged its contribution to Bhutan’s economic growth.
He reaffirmed India’s continued commitment to supporting Bhutan in sustainable energy development.
The visit also included inspection of the powerhouse and dam site, where he was apprised of ongoing operations.
As part of the visit, the minister also visited the Wangdue Phodrang Dzong, a key site reflecting Bhutan’s historical and cultural heritage.
