Jammu & Kashmir is on the cusp of a historic transformation that will usher in a new era of economic and energy abundance for the region. The Government has charted out a time-bound roadmap to scale up the UT’s operational hydropower generation capacity to a phenomenal 10,969.65 MW by December 2035.
This three-fold rise in the current figure of 3,540.15 MW will herald in a new era of energy abundance for the UT.
Currently, the UT is utilizing just 24 per cent of its huge identified hydropower potential of 14,635 MW.
Out of the 14,635 MW of power potential, the Chenab basin with a massive 11,283 MW will emerge as a veritable powerhouse of J&K’s burgeoning hydropower revolution.
The Government’s ambitious and multi-pronged strategy to tap into this colossal potential will transform J&K into a power-surplus state.
The roadmap has been chalked out keeping in view the rich hydropower potential and the first set of power projects is also on course to meet the targets set for 2026 as 1,636 MW of new capacity would have been added.
The progress of major hydropower projects like the 1,000 MW Pakal Dul HEP which has achieved 85 per cent physical completion and 624 MW Kiru HEP that has attained 88.75 per cent progress is also heartening. Besides the 540 MW Kwar HEP and 850 MW Ratle HEP are also gathering momentum with their stupendous progress. This will ensure that the targets are met on time, underlining the Government’s commitment to the cause.
This hydropower revolution will have a multiplier effect on the UT as it will not only bolster energy security but also reduce the state’s dependence on external power. The assured power supply will give a fillip to the state’s economy. Power supply is a critical element for industrialization and tourism which are the twin engines that will drive the state’s economy. The hydropower projects would create economic opportunities and generate employment for the youth. It will elevate the socio-economic conditions of the people.
The vision of the Government to transform J&K into a power-surplus state by 2035 will put the UT on the forefront of India’s journey towards sustainable growth and development.
