Jammu, January 4
Shri Manohar Lal, Union Minister of Power and Housing & Urban Affairs, accompanied by Pankaj Agarwal, Secretary (Power), Ministry of Power, Government of India, arrived in Jammu today. The Union Minister and Secretary (Power) were warmly received by Bhupendra Gupta, Chairman & Managing Director, NHPC Limited.
Gupta briefed the Union Minister and Secretary (Power) on the progress of various NHPC projects located in the Union Territory of Jammu & Kashmir and apprised them of the proposed inspection programme of ongoing and upcoming hydroelectric projects. The two-day visit includes inspections of projects located in Reasi, Ramban and Kishtwar districts.
Union Minister visited NHPC’s Salal Power Station, where he was apprised of the ongoing works. He directed NHPC to expedite the sediment removal operations of the Salal reservoir. It is pertinent to mention that the Salal Power Station, located on the Chenab River in Reasi district, is undertaking sediment removal works following the termination of the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT), aimed at removing accumulated silt and maximizing optimal utilization of water resources.
During the visit to the Salal Power Station, the Union Minister and the Secretary (Power) also undertook a plantation drive within the power station premises, underscoring the Government’s commitment to environmental conservation and sustainable development. The Union Minister also held discussions with the local administration and senior officials of various concerned departments to ensure coordinated efforts for timely execution of works.
Subsequently, the Union Minister conducted an aerial inspection of the Sawalkot Hydroelectric Project (1856 MW) while en route to Kishtwar. Upon arrival in Kishtwar, he visited the Ratle Hydroelectric Project, where he laid the foundation stone for the dam concreting works and encouraged the project team to complete the works in an effective and time-bound manner. During his stay, the Union Minister will inspect various ongoing NHPC projects in Kishtwar district.
