The Government of India plans to commission the 1,000 MW Pakal Dul and 624 MW Kiru hydropower plants on the Chenab river by the second quarter of financial year 2026–27. This follows a directive from the Ministry of Power to fast-track delayed projects in Jammu and Kashmir after the recent suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty.

Power Secretary Pankaj Agarwal confirmed that contractors for five ongoing hydro projects in the region have been summoned and instructed to avoid further delays. The Pakal Dul plant is under construction on the Marusudar tributary in Kishtwar, while Kiru is also being developed in the same district.

Both projects are led by National Hydroelectric Power Corporation (NHPC) and are considered strategic assets in India’s shift towards clean energy. Pakal Dul will be the largest hydropower station in the region upon completion.

The ministry is closely monitoring other projects such as Parnai (38 MW), Kwar (540 MW), and the 850 MW Ratle plant, with staggered commissioning scheduled between FY27 and FY29.

In parallel, India is reviewing hydropower policy incentives such as tax waivers and infrastructure grants. These moves are expected to accelerate clean energy development, particularly in sensitive geographies like Jammu and Kashmir.

Source:Moneycontrol