In a significant policy move after suspending the Indus Waters Treaty with Pakistan, the Centre has stepped up efforts to fast-track a major hydroelectric project on the Chenab river in Jammu and Kashmir. State-run National Hydroelectric Power Corporation (NHPC) has floated a tender worth ₹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 generate 1,856 MW of electricity, making it one of the largest hydroelectric ventures in the region. The renewed push is being viewed as part of India’s broader strategy to optimise the utilisation of river waters allocated to it under the Indus water-sharing framework.
According to tender details, the bid submission process for the construction of the dam, tunnels, and associated infrastructure will begin on March 12 and close on March 20. The bids will remain valid for 180 days, and the total completion period has been set at 3,285 days, indicating a long-term construction schedule spanning several years.
The Sawalkot Hydroelectric Project has been under consideration for years, but shifting geopolitical dynamics and increased emphasis on energy security have led to fresh momentum. Once completed, the project is expected to significantly enhance power generation capacity in Jammu and Kashmir and strengthen electricity supply to the national grid.
Officials said the project will also create employment opportunities and boost infrastructure development in Ramban district, where major components of the construction work will take place.
India suspended the Indus Waters Treaty with Pakistan in April last year following a terror attack in Pahalgam that killed 26 people, escalating diplomatic tensions between the two nations. Under the 1960 treaty, India has rights over the eastern rivers—Ravi, Beas and Sutlej—while Pakistan receives most of the waters from the western rivers—Indus, Jhelum and Chenab—though India retains limited usage rights over the western rivers.
