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J&K Chief Secretary orders expedition in 2 hydro projects amid Pak's objections

J&K Chief Secretary orders expedition in 2 hydro projects amid Pak's objections

India Today16-05-2025

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo reviewed the sites of two major hydroelectric power projects - Rattle and Dul Hasti - in Kishtwar district and directed officials to expedite the construction and resolve operational bottlenecks.This comes as Pakistan has raised objections to Rattle and Dul Hasti projects on several occasions, citing concerns over water flow and compliance with the Indus Waters Treaty, which has been suspended by India in the wake of the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack.advertisementHowever, India maintains that the projects adhere to the treaty's guidelines and are crucial for the region's energy security and economic development.
The Chief Secretary conducted a detailed review of the 850 MW Rattle Hydroelectric Power Project and the 390 MW Dul Hasti hydroelectric power station.Jammu and Kashmir's Information and PR Department shared a glimpse of the visit on X. "Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo visited Rattle (850 MW) and Dul Hasti (390 MW) hydroelectric projects to review progress and operations. Emphasised on timely completion, quality standards and resolving bottlenecks. Held review meet with NHPC, CVPPL and district officials." At the Rattle project site in Drabshalla Block, Dulloo was briefed on the project's progress. He inspected critical infrastructure, including the power intake structure, coffer dam, underground powerhouse complex, and the tail-raised tunnel.advertisementThe Chief Secretary instructed project authorities to intensify efforts for timely completion while upholding quality standards and addressing key operational issues.At the Dul Hasti Hydroelectric Power Station, Dulloo assessed the plant's operational status and held interactions with on-site officials. He urged performance enhancement and resolution of pending concerns. A high-level meeting with representatives from NHPC, CVPPL and HOPs of all Kishtwar-based power projects followed the site inspections.In addition to the ongoing Rattle and Dul Hasti projects, two more hydropower plants are also under development on the river Chenab in Kishtwar district, positioning the region as a future powerhouse of clean energy.The Chief Secretary was accompanied by senior officials, including Principal Secretary of the Power Development Department H Rajesh Prasad and Managing Director of JKPDCL, Rahul Yadav.On May 14, the Chief Secretary confirmed that the Jammu and Kashmir government was actively assessing damage and fast-tracking relief measures in the border areas affected by recent shelling from Pakistani forces. Efforts to expand safety infrastructure, including the construction of additional bunkers, were also on.With ANI inputsMust Watch

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