Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar concluded a significant two-day visit to Jammu and Kashmir with a crucial review of three major hydroelectric projects planned on the Chenab River. The visit, which took place on February 24th and 25th, 2024, focused on advancing power generation and water resource infrastructure in the Union Territory.
Strategic Review of Key Hydropower Ventures
During his visit, CM Khattar, who also serves as the Union Minister for Power, conducted an in-depth assessment of the ongoing and proposed projects. The review centered on the 1,000 MW Pakal Dul Dam, the 624 MW Kiru Hydroelectric Project, and the 540 MW Kwar Hydroelectric Project. All three are strategically located on the Chenab River, a major tributary of the Indus River system.
Officials from the Chenab Valley Power Projects Private Limited (CVPPPL) provided detailed briefings on the progress, technical specifications, and potential benefits of these initiatives. The discussions emphasized not only power generation but also the broader implications for regional development and water security.
Focus on Timely Completion and Benefits
A primary objective of the review was to ensure the timely completion of these projects. The Pakal Dul Dam is a particularly significant undertaking, representing one of the largest hydropower projects in the region. The review meeting stressed the importance of adhering to project timelines to harness the clean energy potential of the Chenab basin efficiently.
The benefits of these projects are multifaceted. They are expected to:
- Substantially increase India's renewable energy capacity.
- Provide a stable power supply to the northern grid, benefiting states like Haryana.
- Create numerous direct and indirect employment opportunities in Jammu and Kashmir.
- Contribute to better water management and irrigation potential in the long term.
Broader Agenda: Development and Security
Beyond the hydropower review, CM Khattar's itinerary included high-level meetings with Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha and other senior administrative officials. The discussions covered a wide range of topics pertaining to the Union Territory's development trajectory.
Security and the peaceful conduct of democratic processes were also key points of deliberation. This comes ahead of anticipated assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir. Khattar expressed confidence in the improving security situation and the administration's preparedness for the electoral exercise.
The Chief Minister's visit underscores the central government's focused approach on accelerating infrastructure and development projects in Jammu and Kashmir. The advancement of major hydropower schemes on the Chenab is seen as a critical step towards economic growth and energy security for the region and the nation.
In his concluding remarks, Khattar highlighted the collaborative effort between the Centre and the UT administration. He reaffirmed the commitment to ensuring that the people of Jammu and Kashmir reap the full benefits of these large-scale national projects, marking a new chapter in the region's progress.
