Why in news? Construction teams working on the 624‑megawatt Kiru hydroelectric project in Jammu and Kashmir have poured more than 10 lakh cubic metres of concrete into the dam – over 80 per cent of the total requirement. The milestone, achieved in early October 2025, signals that the project is on track for commissioning by 2026.
Background
Kiru is a run‑of‑river scheme on the Chenab River near Patharnakki village, about 42 km from Kishtwar. It is part of a cluster of hydro projects (Pakal Dul, Kiru, Kwar and Kirthai‑II) managed by Chenab Valley Power Projects Ltd (CVPPL), a joint venture between the National Hydro Power Corporation and the Jammu & Kashmir State Power Development Corporation. With four 156‑MW vertical Francis turbines housed in an underground powerhouse, Kiru will generate 624 MW of electricity.
Environmental clearance was granted in 2016 and Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone in 2019. The scheme includes a 135‑metre‑high concrete gravity dam and two 7.35‑km‑long head race tunnels dug by tunnel boring machines. It aims to harness the Chenab’s hydro potential while complying with the Indus Waters Treaty.
Recent progress
- Dam concreting milestone: Engineers have placed over 10 lakh cubic metres of concrete out of the 12 lakh cubic metres needed for the dam, indicating that structural work is nearing completion.
- Powerhouse assembly: The stator for Unit 1 is being installed in the underground powerhouse, marking the start of electro‑mechanical works.
- Tunnel excavation: By mid‑2025, workers had bored over half of the twin head race tunnels; completion is expected in 2026.
Why it matters
Once operational, Kiru will provide clean electricity to northern India, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and helping meet peak demand. The project creates jobs in Kishtwar district, supports local industries and demonstrates India’s commitment to sustainable hydro development.
Sources: The Statesman and Andritz Hydro.