Union Power Minister Reviews NHPC Hydroelectric Projects in Jammu & Kashmir

Union Minister of Power and Housing & Urban Affairs Shri Manohar Lal visited Jammu on Tuesday to review the progress of National Hydroelectric Power Corporation (NHPC) projects in the Union Territory of Jammu & Kashmir. He was accompanied by Shri Pankaj Agarwal, Secretary (Power), Ministry of Power, Government of India.

During the visit, NHPC Chairman and Managing Director Shri Bhupendra Gupta briefed the Minister on the status of various hydroelectric projects being implemented by NHPC in Jammu & Kashmir. The Minister’s two-day visit includes inspections of projects located in the districts of Reasi, Ramban and Kishtwar.

On the first day of the visit, Shri Manohar Lal inspected NHPC’s Salal Power Project in Reasi district, where he reviewed ongoing works and directed officials to expedite sediment removal operations in the Salal reservoir. The Salal Power Station, located on the Chenab River, is currently undertaking sediment removal following the termination of the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT), with the objective of clearing accumulated silt and ensuring optimal utilisation of water resources.

During his visit to the Salal Power Station, the Minister also carried out a plantation drive within the project premises, reaffirming the Government of India’s focus on environmental conservation and sustainable development. He further held discussions with local administration officials and senior representatives from concerned departments to ensure coordinated efforts for the timely execution of project works.

En route to Kishtwar, Shri Manohar Lal conducted an aerial inspection of the 1,856 MW Sawalkot Hydroelectric Project to assess its progress and site conditions.

Upon reaching Kishtwar, the Minister visited the Ratle Hydroelectric Project, where he laid the foundation stone for the dam concreting works. He encouraged the project team to adhere to timelines and complete the construction in an efficient and time-bound manner, emphasising the strategic importance of hydropower development in strengthening regional energy security.