New Delhi, January 4 : Union Minister of Power and Housing & Urban Affairs, Manohar Lal, arrived in Jammu on Sunday on a two-day visit to the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir to review NHPC hydroelectric projects. He is accompanied by Pankaj Agarwal, Secretary (Power), Ministry of Power, Government of India.
During the visit, Bhupendra Gupta, Chairman and Managing Director, NHPC, briefed the Minister on the progress of various NHPC hydroelectric projects located in Jammu and Kashmir. The two-day tour includes inspections of projects in Reasi, Ramban and Kishtwar districts.
On the first day, Manohar Lal visited NHPC’s Salal Power Project, where he was apprised of the ongoing works. The Minister directed NHPC to expedite sediment removal operations of the Salal reservoir. The Salal Power Station, situated on the Chenab River in Reasi district, is undertaking sediment removal works following the termination of the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT), with the objective of removing accumulated silt and ensuring optimal utilization of water resources.
During the visit to the Salal Power Station, the Union Minister also undertook a plantation drive within the power station premises, highlighting the Government’s commitment to environmental conservation and sustainable development. He further held discussions with the local administration and senior officials of concerned departments to ensure coordinated efforts for the timely execution of works.
En route to Kishtwar, Manohar Lal conducted an aerial inspection of the Sawalkot Hydroelectric Project (1856 MW). On reaching 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.(KNS)
