200 ton hydroelectric turbine to be installed deep inside Taliban territory

November 9, 2008

NATO forces are installing a massive hydroelectric turbine and transmission lines that will double the power supply to southern Afghanistan.  The project required 4,000 troops to cut a 100 mile road to transport equipment under heavy attacks.  The $180 million mission is aimed at upgrading the Kajaki Dam, which was built in 1975.  Even after the new turbine is installed, NATO forces will still have their work cut-out for them, having to install miles of new transmission lines through hostile territory from the dam to the city of Kandahar.

The upgraded dam is projected to provide many new jobs and an economic revival to one of the most violent and depressed parts of Afghanistan. 

It is absolutely great that we are building Afghanistan’s infrastructure, and helping to spur their economy and create jobs.  However, if we are able to accomplish such an impressive task on the other side of the world, under enemy fire, we should also be able to address our own energy issues here at home.  As January 20 approaches, we will be watching to see if President-elect Obama agrees.

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