The Kano State Government has inaugurated the newly constructed TRC Bridge at the Challawa 6MW Hydro Power Site, linking Turawa town and surrounding communities in what has been described as a major boost to transportation and accessibility in the area.
Speaking at the official inauguration, the State Commissioner for Power and Renewable Energy, Engr. Dr. Gaddafi Sani Shehu, described the bridge as a welcome development that will significantly ease movement for residents and enhance socio-economic activities.
He expressed appreciation on behalf of the state government for the successful execution of the project by SKIPPER Nigeria Ltd, noting that the company has demonstrated strong commitment to sustainable development and improving the lives of the people.
The Commissioner stated that the project aligns with the state government’s broader agenda of strengthening infrastructure and promoting sustainable socio-economic growth across Kano State. He also called on wealthy individuals and non-governmental organizations to complement government efforts in providing essential social amenities to communities.
In his remarks, the Managing Director of Kano Hydro and Energy Development Company (KHEDCO), Engr. Ado Ibrahim Doguwa, said the bridge would ease the transportation of goods and improve access to Turawa town, Karaye, Kiru, and other neighbouring communities.
The Project Director, Mr. Shailendra Singh, announced the successful completion of the road bridge constructed over the TRC as part of the 2x3MW Challawa Hydro Power Project.
He commended the Project Manager, Mr. Anurag Rana, and the project team for their outstanding performance.
Mr. Singh also expressed appreciation to the Governor of Kano State, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, and Mr. Jitender Sachdeva, Chief Managing Director of Skipper Group, for their invaluable support in ensuring the successful delivery of the project.
He further disclosed that the Challawa 2x3MW hydroelectric project is expected to resume power supply to the Kano State Government by the end of May 2026 or the first week of June 2026.
According to him, controlled blasting operations will be carried out to remove the temporary access approach road created for public use during the bridge construction.
This measure is necessary to allow the free flow of water from the TRC.
He assured that all necessary precautions would be taken to protect nearby structures, including the dam, while also enhancing commercial activities in the area.
Dr. Vijaykumar Pundlik Sonawane explained that the rocky terrain near the temporary bridge, with an elevation difference of more than three and a half metres from the TRC, requires controlled blasting to ensure safe and effective clearance.
The Commissioner was accompanied by the Managing Director of the Rural Electricity Board (REB), Engr. Bala Dambatta; the Deputy Managing Director of KHEDCO, Engr. Abduljabbar Muhammad Nanono; and other directors of the Ministry.
The Kano State Government reaffirmed its commitment to delivering infrastructure projects that improve the quality of life of its citizens and promote sustainable development across the state.
Credit: Saad Umar Faruk
