The regional directorate of Da Breshna Sherkat stated that over 10 megawatts of electricity are being generated through small-scale power dams in the province.

One of these small hydroelectric systems is located in the Fasel Babaji area of Lashkar Gah city, where five families are benefiting from it. This mini power station was built by local residents and provides electricity around the clock.

Asadullah, the person in charge of the unit, told TOLOnews: “We built this dam collectively. Five families contributed, each investing 50,000 afghani. If the government supports this, the dam could provide electricity to many more families.”

Several other small-scale power systems have also been installed along the Boghra Canal in Helmand, although some of them do not meet standard quality.

Meanwhile, residents of Helmand say the province has abundant water resources, and proper hydroelectric dams should be built. They believe that if standard small-scale power dams are developed, it would greatly improve local living conditions.

Sayed Mohammad, a resident of Helmand, said: “If the government sends a team to assess these dams, that would be very good. We have water here, but it is not being used for power generation. The government should invest in the non-functional micro dams and repair them.”

The Helmand electricity authority stated that there are seven locations in the Bashran area and 18 in the Garmsir district where small-scale power dams with a capacity of up to 10 megawatts could be constructed.

Shir Ahmad, head of energy regulation at the Helmand Breshna authority, told TOLOnews: “We have surveyed all areas in Helmand where small hydro turbines can be installed. If the private sector invests in electricity production, both sides will benefit more. We will also provide additional facilities for them.”

The Helmand Breshna company pledged that it is ready to provide various facilities to investors interested in the electricity sector in the province.