Boosting Power in J&K: Sawalkote Hydroelectric Project Gains Momentum

The 1856 MW Sawalkote Hydroelectric Project in Jammu and Kashmir is awaiting administrative approval, following a 2021 MoU between NHPC and JKSPD. Currently, 3,014 MW of hydroelectric projects are under construction in J&K, with regular reviews by the Ministry of Power to ensure progress.

The administrative approval for the 1856 MW Sawalkote Hydroelectric Project in Jammu and Kashmir is currently under consideration, the Parliament was informed on Monday. This comes after a memorandum of understanding was signed in January 2021 between NHPC and the Jammu & Kashmir State Power Development Corporation (JKSPD) to establish the project on the Chenab River in the Ramban district of J&K.

Minister of Power Manohar Lal revealed that all necessary clearances have been obtained apart from Forest Clearance stage-II. The administrative approval is still pending, according to his statement to the Rajya Sabha. This update was in response to a query regarding the government's review of major hydroelectric projects in J&K, including the Sawalkote initiative.

Lal further added that currently, four major hydroelectric projects, amounting to a total capacity of 3,014 MW, are under construction in the Union Territory through joint efforts between NHPC and JKSPDC. He emphasized that the Ministry of Power and the Central Electricity Authority hold regular review meetings to monitor progress and address project-specific issues efficiently.

(With inputs from agencies.)