Power Minister Reviews J&K Hydel Projects To Boost Water Resources After IWT Suspension

Union Power and Housing & Urban Affairs Minister Manohar Lal reviewed NHPC’s hydroelectric projects in Jammu and Kashmir, with a focus on maximising water utilisation following the termination of the Indus

Waters Treaty. Accompanied by Power Secretary Pankaj Agarwal, the Minister is assessing key projects to ensure faster execution and better management of river resources across the Union Territory.

The Minister was briefed by NHPC Chairman and Managing Director Bhupendra Gupta on the progress of key hydroelectric projects across the region. The visit covers project sites in Reasi, Ramban and Kishtwar districts.

On the first day, Manohar Lal visited the Salal Power Project in Reasi district, located on the Chenab River. Officials informed him about ongoing work at the station, including sediment removal from the Salal reservoir. The Minister directed NHPC to speed up the removal of accumulated silt to ensure better use of water resources. These works are being carried out after the termination of the Indus Waters Treaty.

During his visit to the Salal Power Station, the minister held meetings with local authorities and senior officials to ensure smooth coordination and timely completion of works.

While travelling to Kishtwar, Manohar Lal carried out an aerial inspection of the 1,856 MW Sawalkot Hydroelectric Project to assess progress on the ground.

After reaching Kishtwar, he visited the Ratle Hydroelectric Project. There, he laid the foundation stone for the dam concreting works. He urged the project team to maintain quality standards and complete the work within the set timelines.