After Indus Treaty freeze, government fast-tracks mega Chenab dam project
The government has fast-tracked the Sawalkot hydroelectric project on the Chenab to boost power generation and drive regional development amid evolving geopolitical dynamics.
In a significant move following the suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty with Pakistan, the Centre has accelerated work on a major hydroelectric project on the Chenab river in Jammu and Kashmir.
State-run power major National Hydroelectric Power Corporation (NHPC) has floated a tender worth Rs 5,129 crore for the construction of the Sawalkot Hydroelectric Project in Ramban district.
Planned on the Chenab river, the Sawalkot project is designed to gaenerate 1,856 MW of electricity and is among the largest hydroelectric ventures in the region. The development is being viewed as part of New Delhi’s broader strategy to optimise the utilisation of waters allocated to India under the Indus framework.
The bid submission process for the dam, tunnels and associated works will begin on March 12 and close on March 20. As per the tender conditions, bids will remain valid for 180 days. The total completion period has been fixed at 3,285 days, indicating a long-term construction timeline spanning several years.
The Sawalkot Hydroelectric Project has been under consideration for years, but the renewed push comes amid shifting geopolitical dynamics and a stronger emphasis on harnessing India’s share of river waters. Once completed, the project is expected to significantly enhance power generation capacity in Jammu and Kashmir and strengthen supply to the national grid.
Officials said the project will also generate employment and boost infrastructure development in Ramban district, where major components of the work are planned.
India suspended the Indus Waters Treaty with Pakistan in April last year as a punitive measure against Islamabad following the terror attack in Pahalgam that killed 26 people. The Pakistan-backed attack led to a sharp escalation in diplomatic tensions between the two countries.
Under the 1960 treaty, India has control over the eastern rivers -- Ravi, Beas and Sutlej -- while Pakistan receives the bulk of waters from the western rivers -- Indus, Jhelum and Chenab -- though India retains limited usage rights over the western rivers.