India Accelerates Hydropower Projects in Jammu and Kashmir Amid Indus Waters Treaty Pause

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The Indian government has expedited three hydropower projects in Jammu and Kashmir, with Power Minister Mohan Lal marking the start of construction for the 850 MW Ratle hydroelectric facility on January 4. The project, located on the Chenab River in Kishtwar district, is the first to begin concrete work since India paused the Indus Waters Treaty following a deadly terrorist attack in April last year. The Ratle project is a run-of-the-river facility that will generate significant power for the region. Lal also reviewed the progress of the 1856 MW Sawalkot hydropower dam and the 390 MW Dulahasti Stage II, which have already received environmental clearances. The Dulahasti Stage II project has seen tenders floated for its construction, while the Sawalkot scheme is set to be presented to the Union government's public investment board (PIB) in March. In a move to boost power production, Lal has directed the commissioning of the under-construction Pakal Dul and Kiru projects by December 2026 and the Kwar project by March 2028. The projects, executed by the Ratle Hydroelectric Power Corporation Limited, a joint venture between National Hydroelectric Power Corporation and Jammu & Kashmir State Power Development Corporation, are expected to contribute significantly to the region's power needs. India has accelerated the timelines of several proposed projects since putting the Indus Waters Treaty on hold, citing outdated clauses. The treaty allowed Pakistan to raise objections to India's power projects on the Indus river system, but by pausing the treaty, India has been able to advance its power buildouts without facing such hurdles. The pause has been seen as a strategic move to increase India's power production and reduce its dependence on other sources.