Why in News?
The Sawalkote hydropower project on the Chenab in J&K received fresh environmental clearance, becoming the first major Indus river project approved post-India’s Indus Waters Treaty suspension. It will generate 1,856 MW, costing ₹2,31,380 crore, highlighting strategic and energy significance.
Description:
● Located in Ramban district, Jammu & Kashmir.
● Situated on the Chenab River, one of the western rivers under the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT).
● Capacity: 1,856 MW – one of the largest hydroelectric projects in India.
● Type: Run-of-the-river project – uses natural river flow with minimal storage.
● Initiated: In 1984, but delayed for several decades.
● Being fast-tracked (2025) after the Pahalgam terror attack and suspension of IWT.
● Expected to generate over 7,000 million units (MU) of electricity annually.
● Involves construction of a concrete gravity dam with a reservoir.
● Declared a project of national importance due to energy and strategic value.
Strategic Importance
● Enhances India’s control over western rivers (Indus, Jhelum, Chenab).
● Strengthens energy security and hydropower capacity in J&K.
● Part of India’s strategic response after suspension of IWT.
● Helps optimize water utilization from rivers allocated to Pakistan under IWT.
Other Chenab River Projects
● Dulhasti Project – 390 MW (Kishtwar)
● Baglihar Project – 890 MW (Ramban)
● Salal Project – 690 MW (Reasi)
Indus Waters Treaty (1960)
● Signed in Karachi, mediated by the World Bank.
● Allocated Eastern Rivers – Ravi, Beas, Sutlej → India.
● Allocated Western Rivers – Indus, Jhelum, Chenab → Pakistan (≈ 80% of water).
● India allowed non-consumptive use – hydroelectricity, navigation, irrigation (limited).
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