Gibe III construction project hits 65 per cent

Some 65 per cent of construction of Gibe III hydroelectric power plant has been finalized, project manager, Engineer Azeb Asnake said.

Engineer Azeb told a group of visiting journalists this week that the project launched with 32 billion Birr is well underway as per schedule. She said the project, which is one of big hydroelectric projects in the world, has capacity to generate 1,870MW.

Engineer Azeb said so far construction of tunnel, two dams and a bridge across the Omo River has been undertaken. The project will help build green economy through reducing the effect of carbon, she said.

Part of the budget for implementation of the project is allocated by the government while the balance is secured in loan from the government of China.

The project being undertaken in Wolaita and Dawro Zones of South Ethiopia Peoples' State is expected to be completed in June 2014. The project is believed to significantly contribute towards growth of power supply in the country.