Hydroelectric Projects on Chenab River
India is intensifying efforts to construct four hydroelectric projects on the Chenab River and its tributaries. This move comes amid escalating tensions with Pakistan, particularly after a terrorist attack in Pahalgam. The projects include Pakal Dul, Ratle, Kiru, and Kwar, all located in Jammu and Kashmir’s Kishtwar district.
About Chenab River
- The Chenab River, originating from the snow-covered Lahaul Valley in Himachal Pradesh, maintains a high water discharge throughout the year.
- In its mountainous stretches, it flows over steep gradients, creating numerous loops and bends, making it highly suitable for economical hydroelectric power generation.
- The Chenab Basin has an estimated firm hydroelectric potential of 3,600 MW and an overall installed capacity of about 11,400 MW.
- The river is formed by the confluence of two streams—Chandra and Bhaga—which rise from the southwestern and northwestern slopes of the Baralacha Pass in the Lahaul and Spiti valleys of Himachal Pradesh.
- Major Tributaries
- Up to Kishtwar, key tributaries include the Thirot, Sohal, Bhut Nallah, Liddrari, and Marusudar.
- Between Kishtwar and Akhnoor, it is joined by Kalnai, Neeru, Raghi, Bichleri, and Ans rivers.
- The Tawi and Manawar Tawi join the Chenab in Pakistan.
- The Chenab’s watershed in India spans parts of Himachal Pradesh and Jammu & Kashmir. The upper catchment lies in Lahoul and Pangi Tehsil of Chamba district. In Jammu & Kashmir, it includes Kishtwar, Doda, Ramban, Udhampur, Jammu, and Rajouri districts.
Hydroelectric Projects
The four projects are designed to enhance India’s hydropower capacity. Pakal Dul is the largest at 1,000 MW, followed by Ratle at 850 MW, Kiru at 624 MW, and Kwar at 540 MW. Pakal Dul will be the first water storage project in the region, boasting a live storage capacity of nearly 109 million cubic meters. This strategic advantage allows India to manage water resources more efficiently, especially during periods of scarcity. The other projects will have limited storage capacity, focusing on run-of-the-river technology.
Indus Waters Treaty
India has recently put the Indus Waters Treaty with Pakistan in abeyance. This decision follows security concerns and the need for enhanced control over water resources. The treaty governs the usage of water from the Indus River system, and its suspension allows India to expedite the construction of these hydroelectric projects, particularly Pakal Dul.
Project Timelines and Costs
The Central Electricity Authority estimates that Pakal Dul and Kiru will be operational by September 2026. Kwar and Ratle are expected to be completed by December 2027 and November 2028, respectively. The total estimated costs for these projects are substantial, with Pakal Dul alone costing around ₹8,112.12 crore.
Technological Advancements
The construction of these projects involves advanced technology. The first Tunnel Boring Machine for Pakal Dul was launched in July 2023. This machine is designed for optimal performance in challenging geological conditions, ensuring efficient progress in tunnelling operations.
Project Implications
The development of these hydroelectric projects has environmental and geopolitical implications. While they aim to boost India’s energy security, they also raise concerns for Pakistan regarding water access. The projects will alter water flow dynamics in the region, impacting downstream ecosystems and communities.
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