The chief minister reviewed the progress of several key infrastructure projects, including the 1,856 MW Sawalkote Hydro Electric Project, 93 MW New Ganderbal HEP, 48 MW Lower Kalnai HEP, and the 5 MW Solar Power Project at Pampore.
File Photo: ANI
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Wednesday chaired a high-level meeting to comprehensively review the status of major hydroelectric and solar power projects across Jammu and Kashmir, with a strong emphasis on expediting implementation timelines and addressing project bottlenecks.
The meeting was attended by Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo, Additional Chief Secretary to the Chief Minister Dheeraj Gupta, Principal Secretary Finance Santosh D Vaidya, Principal Secretary Power Development Department Rajesh H Prasad, Managing Directors of Jammu and Kashmir Power Distribution Corporation Limited, and other senior officials.
Advertisement
The chief minister reviewed the progress of several key infrastructure projects, including the 1,856 MW Sawalkote Hydro Electric Project, 93 MW New Ganderbal HEP, 48 MW Lower Kalnai HEP, and the 5 MW Solar Power Project at Pampore.
Advertisement
The issue of outstanding electricity dues from commercial consumers was also discussed. Officials from the Power Development Department briefed the Chief Minister on ongoing recovery efforts and proposed schemes aimed at safeguarding future revenue through structured arrears clearance mechanisms.
In regard to the long-pending New Ganderbal and Lower Kalnai hydro projects—both facing significant delays due to contractual and financial hurdles—the Chief Minister directed departments to explore viable alternatives to fast-track execution. He stressed the importance of timely decision-making to curb further cost escalation and to meet rising energy demands.
The 5 MW Solar Power Project at Pampore, being implemented through the Solar Energy Corporation of India (SECI), also came under review. The Chief Minister called for a detailed cost-benefit analysis in view of prevailing solar tariffs and emphasized the need to utilize idle land at the site more effectively to maximize output.
The meeting further discussed the Draft Hydro Power Policy 2025, which is set to replace the existing 2011 policy. The proposed framework seeks to attract private investment through Independent Power Producer (IPP) and Public-Private Partnership (PPP) models, while introducing transparent project allotment systems, financial incentives, simplified clearance processes, and assured power off-take to create a more investor-friendly environment in the renewable energy sector.
Reaffirming his government’s commitment to sustainable development and inclusive growth, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah underscored the strategic importance of clean energy in shaping Jammu and Kashmir’s long-term economic and environmental future.
Advertisement
