The centre has reviewed progress on key hydropower projects in Jammu and Kashmir, with Manohar Lal, Union Minister of Power and Housing & Urban Affairs, directing faster execution and improved reservoir management during a two-day visit to the union territory.
The minister reviewed projects of the National Hydroelectric Power Corporation (NHPC), including the Salal, Sawalkot and Ratle hydropower projects across Reasi, Ramban and Kishtwar districts. At the Salal power station on the Chenab river, he directed NHPC to expedite sediment removal operations at the reservoir to remove accumulated silt and maximise optimal utilisation of water resources. The sediment management works are being undertaken following changes linked to the Indus Waters Treaty framework.
Manohar Lal also conducted an aerial inspection of the 1,856-MW Sawalkot Hydroelectric Project and visited the Ratle project in Kishtwar, where he laid the foundation stone for dam concreting works. Officials said the visit focused on coordination with the local administration and ensuring time-bound execution of ongoing works.
Hydropower remains a key component of India’s clean energy mix, providing firm generation capacity to complement the rapid expansion of variable renewable sources such as solar and wind.
