ISLAMABAD, (INP): The Institution of Engineers Pakistan, Islamabad Center organized a technical lecture for graduate engineers on "CASA 1000 - Cross-Border Electricity Trade via HVDC Transmission Line". Engineer Mohammad Ajaz, of N8 Consulting Engineering Services was the Resource Person and the session was conducted by Engr. Ahmed Shamim.

Engr. Muhammad Ajaz through a detailed presentation highlighted business objectives and strategic benefits of the CASA-1000 project and the technical parameters of the High Voltage DC line. An information was given about the benefits and drawbacks of HVDC line and the plan to bring 1300 MW of hydropower from Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan to Pakistan through Afghanistan under the CASA-1000 project. It was apprised that CASA-1000 project is very important as its completion will help Pakistan to overcome the power shortages in summer and solve the energy crisis. He further said that construction of transmission line of the project and converter station is under construction at Nowshera.

Engr. Ajaz added that the transmission line in Pakistan is perfectly safe, however, in the event of instability in Afghanistan it could be at risk.

Speaking on a point, Engr. Saim Raza former General Manager of National Transmission & Despatch Company also elaborated the technical details of CASA-1000 transmission line with an information that reciprocally in future this line can also be used to provide electricity to Tajikistan in winters.

On culmination of lecture, Engr. Ajaz responded to the questions of the participants.

In his concluding remarks, Secretary IEP Islamabad Gp. Capt (r) Engr. Najamuddin thanked the Resource Person for enlightening the participants on cross-border trade of electricity under CASA-1000 and the technicalities of High voltage DC lines.

He advised young engineers to attend the free CPD Lectures that will keep them abreast with latest technologies and enhance their capabilities.

Engr. Najamuddin also urged the present engineers for renewing their membership of Pakistan Engineering Council so as to be eligible for casting vote in the coming PEC elections.