Union Minister of Power and Housing and Urban Affairs Manohar Lal on Monday concluded a comprehensive two day visit to Jammu and Kashmir, during which he carried out an extensive review of key hydroelectric power projects and assessed progress on some of the most strategically important energy assets in the region. The visit underscored the Government of India’s focus on accelerating hydropower development, strengthening energy security and ensuring timely completion of critical infrastructure in the Union Territory.
On the first day of the visit, the Minister reviewed the Salal, Sawalkot and Ratle hydroelectric projects. Accompanied by Power Secretary Pankaj Agarwal, he arrived in Jammu and held detailed discussions with senior officials of NHPC, including Chairman and Managing Director Bhupendra Gupta, on the status of ongoing works across projects located in Reasi, Ramban and Kishtwar districts.
At the Salal Power Project in Reasi district, located on the Chenab River, the Minister was briefed on operational and maintenance challenges as well as the progress of sediment removal works in the reservoir. He directed NHPC to expedite these operations to restore and maximise generation capacity. The sediment management exercise has assumed added significance following the termination of the Indus Waters Treaty, enabling optimal utilisation of water resources and improving long term performance of the project. During the visit, the Minister also undertook a plantation drive within the Salal power station premises, reiterating the government’s commitment to environmental conservation and sustainable development alongside infrastructure expansion. He further interacted with the local administration and officials of concerned departments to ensure close coordination and timely execution of works.
While travelling to Kishtwar, the Minister conducted an aerial inspection of the Sawalkot Hydroelectric Project, a major 1856 MW project considered vital for meeting future power demand. The aerial survey allowed a first hand assessment of terrain related challenges, access roads and construction preparedness.
Upon reaching Kishtwar, the Minister visited the Ratle Hydroelectric Project, where he laid the foundation stone for dam concreting works. He encouraged the project team to maintain strict adherence to quality standards and timelines, emphasising that timely completion of the project is essential for regional development and energy self sufficiency.
Late on the first day, the Minister arrived at NHPC’s Dulhasti Power Station in Kishtwar, where he was received by Director Projects Sanjay Kumar Singh and Managing Director of Chenab Valley Power Projects Limited Ramesh Mukhiya, along with senior officials of NHPC and CVPP.
On the second day, the Minister inspected all three major projects being executed by Chenab Valley Power Projects Limited, namely Pakal Dul with an installed capacity of 1000 MW, Kiru with 624 MW and Kwar with 540 MW. He conducted site inspections and held a detailed review meeting with project heads and contractors. During the meeting, the CMD of NHPC presented a comprehensive briefing on construction progress, technical challenges, land and logistics issues, and mitigation measures adopted for each project.
After reviewing the status of works, the Minister issued clear directions for time bound completion. He instructed that the Pakal Dul and Kiru projects be commissioned by December 2026, while the Kwar project is to be completed and commissioned by March 2028. He stressed that meeting these timelines is critical not only for augmenting power generation capacity but also for supporting economic growth, employment and infrastructure development in the region.
The Minister also interacted with local residents and workers at various project sites, patiently listening to their concerns and feedback. He acknowledged the difficulties faced by the workforce due to challenging terrain and climatic conditions and appreciated their dedication and commitment. Commending engineers, technicians and labourers for their efforts, he encouraged them to continue working with the same spirit to achieve national energy goals.
The two day visit reaffirmed the central government’s focus on harnessing Jammu and Kashmir’s hydropower potential in a sustainable and efficient manner, strengthening regional energy infrastructure and ensuring that flagship power projects are delivered within committed timelines.
