Centre considering new hydropower projects, including in J&K’s Sawalkot: Union Power Secretary Pankaj Agarwal
The statement assumes significance in the backdrop of Pakistan’s objections raised on the construction of Sawalkote dam project in July last year and February this year with India and had sought consultation
Union Power Secretary Pankaj Agarwal announced on Saturday, October 3, 2026, that the Centre is considering new hydropower projects in Jammu and Kashmir, including the Sawalkot project. This decision comes after the 1960 Indus Water Treaty lapsed following the Pahalgam attack in 2025. Agarwal stated that these projects would meet local and national power demands.
The Sawalkot hydroelectric project, built by the National Hydroelectric Power Corporation (NHPC) at a cost of ₹5,129 crores on the Chenab River, is expected to generate 800 megawatts of electricity. Major hydropower projects like Ratle, Pakal Dul, Kiru, and Kwar are also progressing well in J&K. Agarwal praised the Union Territory administration for its support in the Chenab Valley Power Projects (Private) Limited.
With around 14,500 MW of hydropower potential identified in J&K, the ongoing projects are expected to address the power deficit in the region. The PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana, which aims to provide free electricity to 50 lakh households, has achieved its first milestone of 100 MW in J&K.
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