Lauding the progress of construction on NHPC's challenging 45-MW Alchi hydel project in the frontier Ladakh region, power minister K C Venugopal has assured the full support of his ministry for successful completion of the power station.

"We are committed for the successful completion of Alchi hydel project, which will have a unique position on completion, as it is going to be the world's highest altitude power station," Venugopal said after inspecting the prestigious project.

The minister, along with Jammu and Kashmir minister of state for power Shabir Ahmad Khan, visited the under-construction power station in Leh, 434 km from here, on Tuesday.

He appreciated the NHPC management for taking up the construction challenge in tough terrain and inhospitable weather.

On commissioning, the Alchi project would be instrumental in propelling the economic growth of the region, as it will cater to the varied energy needs of consumers, Venugopal said.

After completion of the project, Khan said both civilian and defence establishments will be benefited in a big way.

The project would ensure dependable power supply to consumers, as well as address industrial concerns, he said.

Khan said to sort out issues regarding laying of transmission lines, diversion of the river Indus and remaining mechanical works under the project, a meeting will be held at Srinagar shortly under the chairmanship of the union minister.

NHPC chief engineer J K Sharma gave a power point presentation to the ministers, highlighting the salient features of the project.

He said this project shall be commissioned by July, 2012.

During their visit to the Alchi hydel project, Venugopal also inaugurated a steel truss bridge having span of 60 metres over the river Indus, which has been constructed to facilitate the supply of construction material to the Alchi hydel project.

The ministers also visited the 1,000-year-old, world famous Alchi Monastery.