Why in news?
In the wake of rising tensions over water sharing, India’s environment ministry granted clearance for the 1,856 MW Sawalkote hydroelectric project on the Chenab River in Jammu and Kashmir. The decision came in October 2025, several months after India suspended provisions of the Indus Waters Treaty following a terror attack. The project has been under consideration for decades.
History of the project
The Sawalkote project was conceived in the 1980s to harness the swift currents of the Chenab. It stalled due to concerns about forest loss and displacement. The 192.5 metre high dam and associated tunnels will inundate over 1,400 hectares and affect around 13 villages. Clearance was delayed until the government decided to fully exploit India’s rights over western rivers, prompting a renewed push.
Project design and expected benefits
- Run‑of‑the‑river scheme: Water from the Chenab will be diverted through tunnels to an underground powerhouse, minimising storage and reducing seismic risk.
- Power generation: With an installed capacity of 1,856 MW, the project is expected to produce about 7,500 million units annually, boosting northern India’s electricity supply.
- Employment and infrastructure: Construction will create jobs and require improved roads and bridges, benefiting remote communities.
- Environmental management: A ₹594 crore plan includes catchment treatment, biodiversity conservation, fish hatcheries and waste management to mitigate ecological impacts.
Concerns and way forward
Environmentalists warn that large dams disrupt river ecology, affect fish migration and submerge forests. Affected families must be resettled with adequate compensation and livelihood support. Effective oversight and transparent communication with local communities will be essential. If implemented responsibly, the project can contribute to energy security while minimising ecological harm.