Introduction: A Major Hydropower Push
India has taken a big step to boost clean energy and water control by inviting bids (tenders) for the massive Sawalkote Hydroelectric Project on the Chenab River in Jammu and Kashmir. The project is estimated to cost around ₹22,704 crore and will be one of the largest in the region once completed.
What is the Sawalkote Project?
- The Sawalkote project is a hydropower plant planned in Ramban district of Jammu and Kashmir.
- It will generate around 1,856 megawatts (MW) of electricity.
- It includes a huge dam, underground powerhouses, and water tunnels.
- It’s expected to produce about 8,000 million units of electricity per year.
- This makes it the largest hydroelectric project in the Union Territory.
Why is This Project Important Now?
- India suspended the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) with Pakistan in April 2025 after a major terrorist attack in Pahalgam.
- Earlier, under the treaty, India had to inform Pakistan before starting such projects.
- Now, India is going ahead without needing Pakistan’s approval or sharing water data.
- This project shows India’s intent to fully use its share of river water and strengthen control over water resources.
Details of the Tender
- The government invited international companies to bid for the project on July 29, 2025.
- The tender is being handled by NHPC (National Hydroelectric Power Corporation).
- It is called Lot-1 and includes planning, design, and engineering work.
- Bids must be submitted by September 10, 2025 (online) and September 12 (physical copy).
- The construction may take around 9.5 years (113 months) to complete.
Technical Features
- The project will include:
- A 192.5-meter tall dam (made with roller-compacted concrete).
- Three tunnels that carry water to turbines.
- Nine turbines generating electricity underground.
- The reservoir can store over 500 million cubic meters of water.
- It will be a run-of-the-river project, meaning water is used as it flows, with limited storage.
Strategic and Regional Benefits
- Will improve electricity supply in Jammu & Kashmir.
- Will create thousands of jobs during and after construction.
- It helps India utilize more of the Chenab River water, which otherwise flowed to Pakistan.
- Part of a bigger plan to develop more hydropower projects in the region like Pakal Dul, Ratle, Kiru, and Kirthai I & II.
Support from Local Leaders
- Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha and political leaders like Omar Abdullah have supported the project.
- They say it will boost the economy, improve irrigation, and provide clean energy.
- The “national importance” status will help get quicker permissions and clearances.
Conclusion: A Historic Move
The Sawalkote Hydroelectric Project is not just about generating electricity. It’s a strategic decision to assert India’s rights over its rivers, ensure energy security, and create new opportunities in Jammu and Kashmir. By floating this ₹22,704 crore tender, India signals a strong message of self-reliance, especially after pausing the Indus Waters Treaty.
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