Water and Power Development Authority (Wapda) has extended the date for 969mw Neelum-Jhelum hydropower project and allowed interested parties to submit their bid documents by November 30, 2005.

Earlier, the submission of bid documents date was October 12, 2005.

The estimated cost of the project is $1.6 billion and is located in AJK.

Sources said the water of River Neelum is to be diverted to lower limb of River Jhelum in a single stretch through a 32.5km long tunnel system, thereby, generating 969mw of power.

Sources added Chinese and French companies have expressed their interest and to arrange financing for project.

Copyright Associated Press of Pakistan, 2005